DANISH-style district heating projects could cut fuel poverty in rural communities, according to a joint paper by gas firm Calor, think tank Common Weal and the Energy Poverty Research Initiative. The cost of rural district heating is not substantially higher than urban district heating schemes. This is because, while the distances are greater, the necessary pipework is easier to install because access is easier.However, this solution may only work for 60% of properties and those that cannot be connected could use biogas boilers in conjunction with building-mounted solar generators, the research found. The conclusion is based on research carried out with Glasgow Caledonian University and comes decades after Denmark took steps to create its large-scale networks, which collect “waste” heat from factories and transport systems and redistribute this. They also take in energy from conventional power stations and renewables. More than 90% of rural residents who are income poor are also fuel poor, according to research. This is far higher than in towns and cities and the problem is linked to poor physical and mental health and lower education attainment. Some campaigners summarise the situation for struggling households as a “heat or eat” choice.
Rural District Heating
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