The charity’s head of partnerships John Baird met with Hillcrest staff at Wharton Square.

Mr Baird said: “It was great to get a tour of this housing project which has been turning heads and warming hearts. It was a welcome opportunity to see firsthand the impact of this technology on the lives of residents.

“Customers on a heat network in Scotland who need information or support can contact us. Our expert advisers will provide support and advice relating to a range of energy issues including billing, affordability and energy efficiency.”

As part of the new arrangements, consumers in vulnerable circumstances can be referred by Advice Direct Scotland to the Extra Help Unit (EHU) at Citizens Advice Scotland for additional support.

The heat network is designed to provide efficient and sustainable heating to all units within the housing project. Unlike traditional heating systems, this network utilises a centralised heat source, distributing warmth through a series of insulated pipes. The result is lower energy costs, reduced carbon emissions and a cozy living environment for all.

As the team toured the facility, they were introduced to the various components of the heat network. From the control room, where engineers monitor and manage the system, to the pipes that transport heat to every corner of the development, the team was impressed by the effectiveness of the setup.

There are around 30,000 homes and 3,000 non-domestic premises connected to heat networks in Scotland. This is roughly over 1000 individual heat networks.

Mr Baird added: “This heat network is not only providing comfort to residents but also helping to promote environmental sustainability. We’re really looking forward to seeing more developments like this in the future.”

Enjoying a prime location in a World Heritage Site, the project is embedded in Quartermile, one of the Scottish capital’s largest urban regeneration schemes. 

Edinburgh Council committed almost £7 million of public subsidy to this development on the site of the former Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Since April 1, heat network consumers have been able to access direct support through Advice Direct Scotland either via energyadvice.scot or through the helpline 0808 196 8660. The service already provides consumers with support and advice related to energy issues including billing, affordability and energy efficiency.