PART 3

Heat network zones

Designation of heat network zone

Designation of heat network zone by local authority
48
1
A local authority must, in considering whether to designate an area in its area as a heat network zone, have regard to the following matters—
a
the potential for use by a heat network of—
i
thermal energy generated from renewable sources,
ii
waste heat or cold,
b
buildings in the area that require considerable and consistent use of thermal energy,
c
the nature and extent of existing infrastructure in the area that could assist in the development of a heat network in the area,
d
the potential for a heat network in the area to contribute to meeting the fuel poverty targets,
e
the potential for a heat network in the area to contribute to meeting the targets specified in section 92(1),
f
any building assessment report received under section 65, and
g
such other matter as the Scottish Ministers may specify by regulations.
2
Before deciding whether to designate an area as a heat network zone, a local authority must consult such persons, and in such manner, as the Scottish Ministers may specify by regulations.
3
Having had regard to the matters mentioned in subsection (1) and complied with the requirements under subsection (2), the local authority may—
a
designate the area as a heat network zone, or
b
decide not to designate the area as a heat network zone.
4
If a local authority designates an area as a heat network zone it must—
a
identify the area in a document by reference to a map,
b
specify in the document the day on which the designation takes effect, and
c
publish the document in such manner as the Scottish Ministers may specify by regulations.
5
In subsection (1)(a)(ii), “waste heat or cold” means heat or cold generated as a result of a use of (or process affecting) land, which would disperse unused if released into air or water.