🔥 Lerwick District Heating Scheme: A Journey of Innovation and Sustainability 🔥

1997 🚀

• The Shetland Islands Council (SIC) green-lights the construction of the revolutionary incinerator, now proudly known as the Energy Recovery Plant.
• Shetland Charitable Trust commits to bringing the district heating scheme to life!

1998 🌟

• In November, the first customer connection goes live, marking the dawn of a new heating era.

1999 🏢

• SHEAP offices relocate from the Toll Clock Centre to the Peak Load Boiler Station at Gremista, bringing operations closer to the heat source.

2000 🏆

• The scheme earns the prestigious Environment Award for Engineers — recognition of its groundbreaking impact on sustainable energy.

2001 💳

• Introduction of a pre-payment system, giving customers more control and flexibility.

2002 🌍

• The Sound area of Lerwick is connected to the district heating scheme, expanding the network and reaching more homes.

2006 🛢️🔗

• A crucial hot water storage tank is installed to boost capacity.
• Completion of the ring mains around Lerwick with the grand opening of the new museum, forming a robust heating network.

2007 🚦

• Connection applications hit maximum capacity as the scheme's success skyrockets!
• An advanced radio transmitting system is introduced, allowing customer meter readings to be collected remotely and on demand.

2008 🎥🔥

• SEPA releases a compelling DVD showcasing the scheme to inspire other local authorities to follow suit.
• A powerful 6.5MW boiler is added to increase heating capacity.

2009 🌡️

• Joining the Combined Heat and Power Association (CHPA), Lerwick takes its place on the national stage, advocating for district heating initiatives.

2011 ⚙️💪

• A cutting-edge control system is installed at the Peak Load Boiler Station, boosting efficiency.
• A new, larger pump replaces two original units, ensuring smoother operation.
• A milestone achieved: the 1,000th domestic customer connection is completed!

2012 🔄

• Governance of Shetland Heat Energy and Power (SHEAP) transitions from the Shetland Charitable Trust to a brand-new Board of Directors.

2014 🌱

• The Northfish biomass plant starts feeding heat into the network, reducing the scheme's dependency on oil during harsh winters.

2016 🔥

• Ownership of the district heating network transfers from the Shetland Charitable Trust to SHEAP.

2017 🏫🏠

• Major connections made to the New Anderson High School and Halls of Residence, as well as the New Eric Gray Centre — further proof of the scheme's vital role in the community.

2018 🎉

• Celebrating 20 years of reliable, sustainable heating, the Lerwick District Heating Scheme reflects on two decades of success.

2022 ⚡

• An exciting new chapter begins as SHEAP connects to the Lerwick Power Station, utilising surplus heat to support the district heating scheme and improve efficiency.

From pioneering innovation to unwavering sustainability, the Lerwick District Heating Scheme continues to set the standard for community heating solutions. 🔥🌍