Worthing Heat Network is launched marking major step towards net zero

We join Worthing Borough Council to celebrate the new low-carbon system set to cut 3,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually and transform how the town heats its landmark buildings.

A major milestone in Worthing’s journey towards a cleaner, more secure energy future has been celebrated, as partners and community leaders gathered to mark the official launch of the Worthing Heat Network.

The reception, held at the iconic Worthing Assembly Hall, brought together civic leaders, project partners and local stakeholders to shine a spotlight on the new low-carbon infrastructure now supplying heat to landmark buildings including Worthing Town Hall and the Connaught Theatre.

Representing Salix Finance, assistant director energy, carbon and technical Davide Natuzzi praised the scale of collaboration behind the scheme.

He said: “It’s a credit to the project that so many stakeholders have come together to celebrate the network. 

“What we’re seeing here in Worthing is exactly the kind of ambition and partnership that will define the UK’s transition to low-carbon heat.”

Davide was joined by Salix colleagues Becca Weight and Justin Morris, with the team highlighting the vital role public sector decarbonisation plays in enabling transformative projects like this.

The network has been delivered in partnership with Worthing Borough Council and private developer Hemiko. Built in just 18 months, the first phase has created 48 local jobs and injected £3.8 million into the local supply chain. Once fully operational, it is expected to save 3,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually - a figure Hemiko says is set to rise as the network expands.

Transforming the local energy landscape

At its heart, the Worthing Heat Network is designed to revolutionise how the town heats its buildings. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels for hot water and heating, the district heating system harnesses large-scale, low-carbon and renewable energy sources that are not feasible at the level of individual buildings.

The overall aim is to decarbonise Worthing town by 2050, with help from HEMIKO's £500m investment to growing the heat network. 

The scheme has benefited from Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding and support delivered by our teams at Salix on behalf of government. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme provides vital grant support to help public bodies cut emissions from their estates, accelerating the shift away from outdated, inefficient heating systems.

As part of Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding Phase 3b draughty old windows in the Connaught Theatre have been replaced.

Salix programme manager Justin Morris added: “The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is about empowering councils and public institutions to take bold, practical steps towards net zero. 

“Heat networks like this demonstrate how strategic investment can unlock long-term carbon savings, energy resilience and economic benefit all at once.”

A shared civic achievement

The launch event was attended by local MPs Tom Rutland and Beccy Cooper, who joined councillors and community leaders in recognising the significance of the milestone.

Speeches were delivered by Cllr Rita Garner and Cllr Sophie Cox, while Mayor Cathy Glynn-Davies officially cut the ribbon, marking the network’s formal entry into operation.

During the speeches the local residents were thanked as they had faced months of road diversions and disruption owing to pipework installation.

Justin added: “The strong turnout of partners and community groups underscored the shared commitment to building a cleaner future for Worthing - one rooted in collaboration, innovation and long-term thinking.

“This project lays the foundations for resilient, locally powered infrastructure that will benefit the community for generations.”