In September 2023 Chipping Community Energy invited property owners to take part in a Pilot Project with the aim of using a small number of properties to demonstrate the technology and means of funding. Without Green Heat Network Funding the costs of the project and ability to finance borehole drilling, etc., is a challenge. However, with the rapid increase in electricity costs over the last 12 months properties that rely on electricity for heat have seen a big rise in their bills. A move to a GSHP would give these properties significant savings even after contributing a standing charge for use of community owned boreholes.

15 properties came forward to say they would like to be part of the Pilot Project. These properties are representative of the mix of building types within the village, small, terraced houses to large, detached properties outside of the village centre. Some of the properties also present a challenge to obtain planning approval as they are listed, within a conservation area or need to use land outside their own curtilage for boreholes and pipework. They also represent a variety of heating methods currently used; oil, LPG and electricity.

The Working Group looks forward to working with the property owners to drive the project forward.