District Heat Networks Techno-Economic Feasibility Study

This ITQ is for a techno-economic feasibility study which builds on the work undertaken for the 2016 Energy Masterplan undertaken by Ramboll and commissioned by the Borough of Poole (BoP), with support from the Heat Network Delivery Unit (HNDU). The Energy Masterplan recommended the further investigation of two heat network opportunities, yet due to budget constraints the Council would like to progress only one network to detailed techno-economic feasibility.

The appointed consultant will be required to assess the cluster as follows: - Town Centre North, using gas CHP to connect to with new development on the land adjacent to the Dolphin Shopping Centre, Dolphin Swimming Poole, the Lighthouse and possible connections to the Hospital and nearby commercial and multi-residential units.

This techno-economic feasibility study will require a detailed assessment and evaluation of the technical and economic aspects of developing the identified heat network, including potential heat sources, heat network route feasibility and costs, connection method to and consultation with potential heat consumers and the techno-economic model that informs the business case for the project.

The appointed consultant is required to undertake a detailed analysis to test whether the above cluster is viable. The Council encourages a low risk approach yet welcomes the identification of expansion opportunities, upon the condition that the network is investable as from its initial phase.

The level of detail shall provide a sufficient confidence in regard to the project feasibility, costs and the willingness of heat consumers to connect to the heat network in order for a decision to be made to progress to detailed project development. Key tasks include: technical feasibility and options appraisal; scheme definition and concept design; phasing analysis; detailed techno-economic modelling; development of financial model; initial scheme-specific business model/commercial structures options identification & evaluation; delivery programme.

The study should also be in such a format as to contribute to the preparation of an evidence base which will support local and regional policies and initiatives to increase the use of decentralised and low carbon energy in the BoP.