Following on from my blog earlier this month, I want to expand the thinking around how we deliver energy in the UK.

We often see electricity and heat as separate things, sometimes even in competition with each other. But in reality, they should be seen as working together to create a more efficient and cost-effective energy network. Instead of viewing heat networks as an alternative to electrification, we need to view them as complementary to each other - an essential piece of the puzzle.

The key is using existing heat from industrial and commercial processes. By capturing and redistributing this waste heat through networks, we can reduce the overall demand for electricity. In turn, this makes electricity usage more efficient, leading to lower electricity costs - which ultimately means lower heat costs for consumers.

But to make this work, we need to shift the conversation. We need to increase familiarity, helping the public and businesses understand how heat networks fit into the bigger energy picture.

We also need to show the advantages, demonstrating how an integrated energy approach benefits everyone, from households to large-scale industry.

A good example of ensuring that heat is utilised in the most efficient manner is the ambitious SAV Systems' EnergiRaven heat transmission pipeline.

By driving collaboration we can ensure that electricity, heat, and other energy solutions work together rather than being seen as competing technologies.

Heat networks are not just another option; they are a vital component of a smarter, more efficient energy future. The challenge now is ensuring people understand the role of Heat Networks and making the case for why this joined-up approach is the best path forward. As we have seen, the Government is currently promoting the familiarity and take up of heat pumps. Ultimately, we need the public, building owners, landlords and developers to equally understand and be knowledgeable of heat networks and their benefits.