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. Instead of relying on a traditional gas boiler, they now use a data center comprising over 500 computer banks stored in their shed to generate heat for their two-bedroom bungalow.
The innovative system captures and transfers the generated heat into their hot water system, significantly reducing their heating bills from £375 to a range of £40 to £70 per month. The Bridges had the data center installed in December 2024 and have witnessed a substantial decrease in their heating expenses ever since.
Terrence Bridges, a retired RAF sergeant, expressed his satisfaction with the new system, highlighting the convenience and cost-effectiveness it provides. The HeatHub data center, developed by Thermify as part of the UK Power Networks’ SHIELD project, aims to assist low-income households in transitioning to more sustainable energy solutions.
The couple’s positive experience has led to the installation of solar panels on their roof as part of the scheme. Mr. Bridges emphasized the importance of the data center’s efficiency in maintaining a consistently warm home without cold spots, praising its impact on their overall comfort and energy savings.
Thermify’s CEO, Travis Theune, underscored the company’s mission to combat fuel poverty by offering affordable and clean energy solutions. The initiative has shown promising results in reducing carbon emissions and lowering heating costs, with plans to expand the program to benefit more households in the future.
According to Daniel Greenwood, from Eastlight Community Homes, the collaboration with SHIELD partners has enabled the successful implementation of the first heat hub installation in the UK, aligning with efforts to enhance home sustainability and affordability for residents.
The SHIELD project, supported by Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund, aims to scale up its impact and reach more households with innovative low-carbon technologies. Jack McKellar, UK Power Networks innovation program manager, emphasized the initiative’s goal to ensure all households, especially those in need, can access and benefit from sustainable energy solutions as part of the country’s green transition.