District Heating & Cooling Networks

Powering the Future of Heat Networks

As the UK transitions to low-carbon energy, heat networks are becoming essential to sustainable urban development. We deliver the engineering, infrastructure, and advisory expertise needed to design, build, and maintain these complex systems, ensuring long-term performance, resilience, and value for communities, developers, and local authorities.

OUR SERVICES

Infrastructure Delivery

We support every stage of heat network development:

• Pipework Installation – Full supply and installation of mechanical infrastructure, welding, and jointing.
• Maintenance & Emergency Cover – Network repairs, asset replacement, and 24/7 emergency response.
• Testing & Monitoring – Flushing, commissioning, leak detection, and system performance optimisation.
• Geotechnical Services – Ground investigations and GPR surveying for accurate planning and de-risking.

Civil Engineering

Seamless integration with urban environments:

• Street Works – Excavation, reinstatement, deep digs, and temporary works.
• Trenchless Technology – Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and other no-dig solutions.
• Traffic Management – Road cleaning, permit co-ordination, and full traffic control.
• Structural Works – Valve chambers, substructures, and support systems.

Engineering Design & Professional Services

• Experienced Team – Over 60 engineers and architects with interdisciplinary expertise.
• Evidence-Based Delivery – Feasibility studies, detailed design, and stakeholder engagement.
• Proven Track Record – 25+ years in district energy, including low-temperature grids, pharma systems, and data centre heat recovery.

Investment-Grade Business Cases

• Robust Modelling – IRR, NPV, cashflow, and sensitivity analysis for confident investment decisions.
• Green Book Alignment – Business cases developed to HM Treasury standards.
• Trusted by Industry – Delivered for local authorities, airports, industrial clusters, and housing associations.
• Socio-Economic Insight – Expertise in consumer economics and non-profit heat network models.

Flexible Engagement

We understand that no two projects are the same. Whether you need full project delivery or targeted support, we tailor our services to meet your specific goals.

The Complete Solution: Expertly Engineered. Trusted to Deliver.

Through a unique partnership of engineering depth, digital innovation, and local insight, we can deliver district heat networks that don’t just meet today’s demands, they anticipate tomorrow’s.

A Fully Integrated Offering

At IES Utilities Group, we don’t just build networks, we engineer long-term value.

In partnership with Tomson Consulting and Norsyn, we offer a fully integrated solution for district heat networks (DHNs) that combines:

• Engineering expertise
• Digital intelligence
• Local delivery know-how

Together, we provide a seamless, end-to-end service, from initial design through to commissioning, completion, and long-term operational oversight. Our partnership model ensures that every project benefits from the right people, tools, and systems—at every stage.

Why Choose us for District Heating?

We are technically accomplished, operationally dependable, and strategically aligned. A trusted delivery partner for Tier 1 contractors, local authorities, and forward-thinking developers.

Proven Expertise, Built on Decades of Success

• Capacity: A 50+ strong team of engineers and designers, with hands-on operational experience
• Experience: Decades of delivering complex infrastructure projects across the UK
• Capability: From front-end design to robust delivery, we have the track record to prove it

Zero recorded issues in over 15 years with Norsyn-designed and installed networks.

Efficient, Smart & Future-Ready

Our approach is driven by innovation, collaboration, and early-stage integration. We’re focused on long-term outcomes, not just short-term fixes.

• Smart Delivery: AI-powered modelling to inform design and scheduling
• Agile & Flexible: Responsive to commercial needs, with modern project management practices
• Quality-Driven: Committed to safety, excellence, and lasting value

Insight with Impact

We bridge regulatory insight with on-the-ground delivery experience, giving you confidence in every decision and every milestone.

• Regulatory Expertise: In-depth understanding of UK standards and codes of practice
• Community Focus: Proven ability to deliver social value alongside infrastructure
• Problem Solvers: Experienced in overcoming supply chain and delivery capacity issues for major schemes
• Future-Ready: Our networks are built for longevity—efficient, resilient, and low-maintenance

Delivering Heat Networks Across the UK

From urban regeneration projects to new residential schemes, our partnership has successfully delivered DHNs across the UK with extensive experience in Scandinavia, each one tailored, efficient, and built to last.

Talk to us today about how IES and its partners can support your next district heat network project, with confidence, capability, and a focus on the future.

At IES, we’re proud to be playing an active role in the shift to low-carbon energy.

Guided by the RIBA Plan of Work, our comprehensive suite of services has been carefully considered and designed to adapt to your project’s specific needs and requirements.

From full turnkey Design & Build solutions to tailored partnerships, we’re ready to deliver across the UK, working closely with you every step of the way.

Our Expertise Covers the Full Scope of District Energy Networks:

Infrastructure Services:

•  Supply and installation of pipework, including fittings, welding, and jointing
•  Leak detection, system performance, and continuous monitoring solutions
•  Asset replacement, network upgrades, and system improvements
•  Testing and commissioning of new and existing systems
•  Management of interfaces with existing utilities and asset owners
•  Integration of related utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and fibre communications

Civil Engineering Capabilities:

•  Geotechnical investigations and surveying
•  Full-service street works: excavation, reinstatement, trial pits, surplus material disposal, deep excavations, and earthworks
•  Advanced trenchless technologies: thrust boring and horizontal drilling
•  Traffic management, road signage, street cleaning, licensing, and permit acquisition
•  Construction of valve and access chambers, substructures, and other critical support structures

Why Partner with IES?

De-Risk Your Portfolio:
We’re fully equipped to deliver safe, reliable, and low-carbon heating and cooling networks, helping to minimise project risks at every stage.

Tailored Solutions:
Every project is unique. Our design, support, and operational services are customised to meet the specific challenges of your project — regardless of its scale, location, or technical complexity.

Innovation-Driven:
Our technology-led solutions and strategic innovation partnerships, bring added value to your infrastructure investments.

Exceptional Performance:
Our experienced project management and installation teams ensure a seamless, professional end-to-end service that meets and exceeds stakeholder expectations.

Commitment to Excellence (SHEQ):
Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality are at the heart of everything we do. We’re committed to maintaining the highest industry standards at every level of our operations.

Partner with a Trusted Provider:
By choosing IES, you’re investing in a proven and reliable partner. We’re dedicated to supporting your Net Zero ambitions through the delivery of world-class heating and cooling networks.

For our District Heating and Cooling Network capabilities