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Heat maps point way for 'green' power stations
Mark Prigg, Science and Technology Correspondent14.10.09
Plans to create dozens of "green" power stations across the capital have been unveiled.
The project, backed by Boris Johnson, is designed to cut emissions, create jobs and cut fuel bills. It will build efficient gas and biofuel-powered power plants, using combined heat and power technology, in every borough.
The first official heat maps of the capital, which help boroughs target areas that could benefit, were published today. The Mayor's target is for 25 per cent of London's heat and electricity to come from local sources by 2025, cutting emissions by 3.5million tonnes a year.
The London Development Agency already has 14 decentralised energy projects and has earmarked £16million for the next four years.
Mr Johnson said: "I want to position London as the world's leading low carbon economy. We are working with the business community and London's boroughs to create ripe conditions to revolutionise the way we power our city." The plan, by the Greater London Authority, LDA, London councils and London First, will "reap significant dividends for Londoners", he added.
Most of London's energy currently comes from power stations miles from the city. Combined Heat and Power and district heat networks involve producing heat and electricity near to where it is used.
The LDA is already working on the Euston Road system and extending the Olympic Park's energy centre to the Stratford high street area. London Thames Gateway Heat Network will capture low carbon heat from Barking Power Station to supply 120,000 properties with heating and hot water.
Guy's and St Thomas' hospital has launched a CHP system set to save £1.5million a year in energy bills and cut emissions by 20 per cent.
