A couple in Braintree, Essex, has successfully reduced their monthly heating costs to just £40 through a pioneering energy initiative trial. Terrence, 76, and Lesley Bridges, 75, replaced their gas boiler with a unique system consisting of over 500 computer banks stored in their shed. This setup generates heat that is transferred to their hot water system, significantly cutting down their heating bills from £375 to a range of £40 to £70 per month. They had the data center installed in December 2024.
Terrence, a retired RAF sergeant, expressed relief at the financial ease the new system brought, allowing them to comfortably adjust their home temperature as needed. The HeatHub data center, developed by Thermify as part of UK Power Networks’ SHIELD project, aims to assist low-income households in transitioning to a net-zero energy model.
The innovative technology has garnered praise from the Bridges, who also had solar panels installed on their roof as part of the scheme. The couple opted to have the system placed in their shed to avoid disrupting their living space or garden. The compact size of the equipment, similar to a chest freezer, includes a battery and converter for efficient operation.
Thermify’s CEO, Travis Theune, highlighted the company’s commitment to providing clean and affordable energy to combat fuel poverty in the UK. Eastlight Community Homes’ Daniel Greenwood commended the successful installation of the first heat hub in the UK, emphasizing the positive impact on carbon emissions and reduced heating expenses.
The initiative, supported by Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund, plans to expand to benefit more households, with a goal to reach 100,000 units annually by 2030. UK Power Networks’ innovative approach aims to ensure that all households, particularly vulnerable and low-income ones, have access to sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions in alignment with the nation’s green energy transition.