First-of-its-kind green energy project to launch in Paisley
The project, the first of its kind by a Scottish local authority, will replace ageing gas infrastructure.
It will be delivered by contractor Kensa, which specialises in networked ground source heat pump technology.
The system draws heat from underground pipes and uses compact "shoebox" heat pumps inside each flat to provide heating and hot water throughout the year.
Heat pumps will be installed in two multi-storey blocks in Paisley (Image: Renfrewshire Council)
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Councillor Marie McGurk, convener of Renfrewshire council's communities and housing policy board, said: "We want to make our homes as comfortable and efficient as possible for our tenants.
"By introducing the ground source heating solution in Gallowhill, we will deliver a reliable and environmentally friendly system which will help to simplify our tenants' energy bills.
"As a council, we continue to consider climate change in every decision we take and we're reducing our emissions wherever possible in the services we deliver – while continuing to access funding opportunities to make the large-scale changes we know are needed."
The chosen flats at Gallowhill Court and Glencairn Court were selected as the existing gas pipework is nearing the end of its lifespan.
A review of potential heating systems revealed ground source heat pumps as the most efficient and cost-effective option.
Work is due to begin later this month and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
Once the transition is complete, residents will no longer pay gas standing charges.
Heating costs will instead be included in electricity bills, which could help reduce overall energy expenses.
The project is being supported by £1,788,382 of funding from the Scottish Government's Scotland Heat Network Fund.
Màiri McAllan, cabinet secretary for housing, said: "I am very pleased that the Scottish Government has been able to support this project via Scotland's Heat Network Fund.
"This is an excellent example of the growing role that heat networks have to play in Scotland, supporting our twin aims of delivering affordable heat and reducing fuel poverty whilst also cutting carbon emissions."
The installation forms part of a wider regeneration programme in Gallowhill.
This includes 65 new build council homes featuring low-carbon air source heat pumps and the Gallowhill Link project, which will create an active travel route to the new Paisley Grammar School Community Campus.
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Mark Potter, regional manager for Scotland at Kensa, said: "We're proud to be working with Renfrewshire Council on this landmark decarbonisation project.
"Networked heat pumps offer an effective, energy-efficient solution to help flats transition away from gas and other inefficient heating systems.
"By connecting each flat to this system, we'll help residents stay warm and comfortable during winter, while keeping energy use and heating costs low.
"Kensa has a strong track record of delivering ground source heat pump systems for projects like this, and we look forward to seeing the long-term benefits it will provide for the Council, residents, and the wider community."
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