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Reading Case Study

Case Study team

Prof Stefan Thor Smith

Lead

University of Reading

Prof Libby Schweber

University of Reading

Dr Martin Green

University of Reading

Dr Mehdi Shahrestani

University of Reading

Dr Amelie Dakoure

University of Reading

Reading

map of deprivation in Reading We will explore innovation around the upscaling of heat networks and the role of local anchor institutions to expand heat networks with an emphasis on public institutions and deprived communities.

Working with Reading Council, Maid Energy, the University of Reading and the NHS we will look at how collective efforts can improve fuel poverty and local infrastructure.

You can read the full case profile here.

Image - Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation for Reading

Case Study introduction and background

conference with local community in Reading Reading Borough Council’s (RBC) strategy to achieve Net Zero Carbon (NZC) by 2030 presents an important framework for local decarbonisation. Many organisations and communities are expected to contribute to this strategy and transition towards low-carbon energy systems. While some large organisations are well resourced-with access to expertise, knowledge, and strategic vision to advance their NZC planning-many smaller organisations and individuals are felt left behind.

At the core of the Reading case study is the challenge of moving beyond organisation-specific solutions toward a more inclusive, collective approach. This requires fostering strong collaboration among all local stakeholders and ensuring ethical community engagement. A key priority is to create accessible opportunities that enable all members of the community, regardless of capacity or resources, to actively participate in the transition to a net zero carbon future.

Photo - Conference with local energy communities, March 2026

Key issues and systematic interventions proposed

photo of a borehole One of the major challenges associated with achieving net zero carbon targets lies in the decarbonisation of heating systems, which have traditionally relied on fossil fuels. The widespread, individual electrification of heating places significant additional demand on an already constrained low-voltage electricity network, potentially exacerbating pressure on the national grid. Consequently, there is increasing interest in exploring alternative, locally available energy resources for sustainable heat provision.

In this context, Reading presents a unique opportunity due to its access to a substantial chalk aquifer, which offers potential as a natural heat source. In collaboration with Reading Borough Council, a team of researchers from the University of Reading is investigating innovative approaches to harness thermal energy from this aquifer and distribute it efficiently through a district heat network. This collaborative initiative aims not only to develop a technically viable low-carbon heating solution but also to ensure equitable access to clean heat. By adopting a community-oriented approach, it seeks to enable local stakeholders to actively participate in, and benefit from, the transition towards a net zero carbon future.

Photo - Borehole to access aquifer, on University of Reading campus

Current progress

photo of a heat network infrastructure Researchers from the University of Reading have identified key stakeholders, including local communities, large organisations with significant energy demand, and local energy communities. They have actively engaged with these groups to better understand the needs and challenges associated with decarbonising heat.

This engagement has been carried out through a series of public consultation activities, as well as targeted workshops and conferences. The overarching aim is to adopt a co-creation approach, working collaboratively with local partners and communities to develop inclusive and practical solutions for the equitable provision of low-carbon heat.

Photo - Infrastructure for the distribution of heat through heat network, on University of Reading campus

Case study partners

Case Study images

Reading deprivation

A map highlighting the spread of deprivation in Reading.

Borehole to access acquifer

This borehole is for accessing the ground water to be used by a heat pump system in order to provide heat for the district heat network in the Whiteknights campus at the University if Reading.

Heat network infrastructure

This infrastructure for the distribution of heat through the district heat network is on Whiteknights campus, University of Reading, and will provide heat within the campus.

Conference

First Berkshire Energy Community Conference organised by the JUST-Systems team at the University of Reading, with attendance from local authorities, local energy communities and Community Energy Pathways team.