A Braintree couple, Terrence, 76, and Lesley Bridges, 75, have successfully reduced their monthly heating costs to just £40 by participating in a new energy scheme trial. They have replaced their gas boiler with a unique system containing over 500 computer banks stored in their shed. This innovative setup generates heat that is channeled into their hot water system, significantly cutting down their bills from £375 to a range of £40 to £70 per month.
The couple, residing in a two-bedroom bungalow for three years, had the data center installed in December 2024. Mr. Bridges, a retired RAF sergeant, expressed relief at being able to afford sufficient heating now, especially crucial for his wife’s spinal stenosis. The HeatHub data center, developed by Thermify as part of UK Power Networks’ SHIELD project, aims to help low-income households transition to net zero energy consumption.
Praising the scheme, Mr. Bridges highlighted the positive impact on their home’s warmth, noting the absence of cold spots. The technology, housed in their shed, has not only improved their living conditions but also attracted interest from others considering similar solutions. The CEO of Thermify, Travis Theune, emphasized the company’s mission to combat fuel poverty and provide affordable clean energy solutions.
Eastlight Community Homes’ Daniel Greenwood commended the collaboration with SHIELD partners in implementing the first heat hub installation in the UK, promoting greener and cost-effective housing solutions. The success of the trial at the Bridges’ home showcases substantial carbon reductions and lower heating expenses, setting the stage for expanding the initiative to more households.
UK Power Networks’ innovation program manager, Jack McKellar, stressed the importance of enabling vulnerable households to benefit from low-carbon technology. With plans to scale up the project significantly in the coming years, the aim is to ensure that all households can access and benefit from emerging green technologies.