A Braintree couple, Terrence, 76, and Lesley Bridges, 75, have successfully reduced their monthly heating costs to just £40 by participating in a new energy program trial. They replaced their gas boiler with a unique system comprising over 500 computer banks stored in their shed. This innovative setup generates heat that is then channeled into their hot water system.
Previously, the Bridges were spending £375 monthly to heat their two-bedroom bungalow. Since installing the data center in December 2024, their bills have significantly decreased to a range of £40 to £70 per month. Mr. Bridges, a retired RAF sergeant, expressed relief that they no longer have to worry about heating costs, especially considering his wife’s health condition.
The HeatHub data center, created by Thermify, is part of the UK Power Networks’ SHIELD project, aimed at assisting low-income households in transitioning to net zero energy consumption. Mr. Bridges commended the scheme, highlighting the positive impact it has had on their home’s heating efficiency.
Travis Theune, CEO of Thermify, emphasized the company’s mission to combat fuel poverty by providing clean and affordable energy solutions. The project has shown promising results with reduced carbon emissions and lowered heating expenses, prompting plans to expand the initiative to benefit more households.
Eastlight Community Homes’ Daniel Greenwood expressed pride in collaborating with SHIELD partners to introduce the first heat hub installation in the UK. He emphasized the role of innovative technologies like the Thermify Heat Hub in enhancing living standards and achieving energy efficiency goals.
UK Power Networks’ Jack McKellar emphasized the importance of projects like SHIELD in enabling vulnerable households to access low-carbon technologies. The initiative aims to scale up to serve 100,000 units annually by 2030, ensuring that all households can benefit from sustainable energy solutions as the UK moves towards a greener future.
