SSE and Scottish Water Horizons launch heat networks partnership in Highland capital

“By capturing thermal energy from wastewater, we can provide a sustainable heat source that reduces carbon emissions and supports the city’s long-term energy needs.
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Donald MacBrayne
Business Development Manager at Scottish Water Horizons

Inverness is set to benefit from pioneering green heating technology as part of a major new partnership between SSE Energy Solutions and Scottish Water Horizons.

The Highland capital has been selected as the location for the first project under the collaboration, which will see a low-carbon heat network established in the Longman Drive area.

The innovative system will harness the untapped potential of wastewater by capturing thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted, with a Scottish Water pumping station providing a sustainable heat source for several key buildings. This would include local SSE and Scottish Water offices and facilities, and other private and public sector buildings in the area.

The project builds on the Highlands' rich tradition of renewable energy innovation, extending the legacy of hydroelectric power into next-generation heating technology.

It is hoped that the project could create local opportunities for supply chains and skills development in the growing heat networks sector, supporting high-value jobs in the green economy. Construction timelines will be announced following detailed design work, with operations expected to begin by 2028.

News of the Inverness site comes as part of a wider strategic partnership between SSE Energy Solutions and Scottish Water Horizons to develop low-carbon district heat networks across Scotland. Decarbonising heat, which currently accounts for 37% of the UK’s CO₂ emissions, is a crucial component in meeting the country's ambitious net zero targets.

Ross McClory, Head of Business Development for Industrial and Commercial at SSE Energy Solutions, said:

“The Highlands have a proud history of renewable energy innovation, so it's fitting that the first project in our new partnership with Scottish Water Horizons should continue that tradition with cutting-edge heating technology in Inverness.

“Our strategic partnership with Scottish Water Horizons is designed to accelerate Scotland's transition to low-carbon heat networks. By deploying this technology, we aim to drive a nationwide approach to urban decarbonisation, demonstrating how communities across Scotland can transform their heating infrastructure.”

Donald MacBrayne, Business Development Manager at Scottish Water Horizons, said:

“We're delighted to be working with SSE Energy Solutions to bring this pioneering project to Inverness, showcasing how innovative heat recovery technology can play a key role in Scotland’s transition to net zero. By capturing thermal energy from wastewater, we can provide a sustainable heat source that reduces carbon emissions and supports the city’s long-term energy needs.

“This collaboration marks an exciting step towards expanding heat networks across Scotland, demonstrating how we can harness untapped resources to deliver low-carbon solutions for communities and businesses.”