The Deputy First Minister has switched on an innovative new District Heating Network in the east end of Glasgow . The system is part of a multi million pound investment by Clyde Gateway which is reducing energy costs and helping the transition to net zero.

Shona Robison was visiting EastWorks in Dalmarnock which will provide modern office spaces and creative hubs when opened later this year and is the first commercial building to be connected to the heat network.

Clyde Gateway’s £9m development of EastWorks sees the retrofit of a former Gas Purifier Shed, preserving the Victorian industrial heritage of the area whilst encouraging businesses to invest and move to the modern office space. The development, delivered by Clark Contracts, is designed to be low carbon and promotes sustainability and wellbeing.

The heat network will also connect to the 48-home Arrolbridge development by Keepmoat Homes. When fully connected, the District Heating Network will provide heat and hot water to over 300 homes and commercial buildings.

The system ensures lower energy bills and is designed to be considerably more efficient than conventional heating. The project is supported by £2.1m funding from SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund and developed in partnership with Scottish Water Horizons.

Eventually, the entire area of South Dalmarnock and Shawfield will be served by district heating from renewable energy sources.

Shona Robison MSP, Deputy First Minister of Scotland, said: “The Scottish Government is supporting the deployment of heat networks in Scotland to help us meet climate change targets. Their efficiency can also help to reduce household bills.

“This project is particularly important because it is helping local residents to enjoy more efficient heating but also encouraging local businesses to come to the area and relocate to places like EastWorks.

“The regeneration of Clyde Gateway has achieved some incredible things. When I was the Commonwealth Games Minister back in 2014 I was determined that there would be a lasting legacy. Every time I come back here even more families and businesses have found a home in these communities and I become even more convinced of the transformational impact of the games.”

Martin McKay, Chief Executive at Clyde Gateway, said: “Clyde Gateway is Scotland’s first Green Regeneration Innovation District and today marks another milestone in our journey to net zero.

“But this project is not just delivering heat and hot water in a more environmentally friendly way, it will also be very cost effective for local residents and the businesses in Dalmarnock. This is incredibly important for us, especially when energy bills remain at very high levels.

“That is why it is so positive to have the Deputy First Minister here with us to unveil this new project which represents a key part of what we do.

“The Scottish Government has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions and Clyde Gateway is determined to work closely with them to deliver a green and prosperous future for our communities of Dalmarnock, Bridgeton and Rutherglen.

“Achieving net zero is hugely important, but it also provides ample opportunities for communities in Clyde Gateway to benefit from the growth of green jobs.”