The Province of East Flanders aims to accelerate the rollout of mini-heat grids to stimulate energy transition in its region.

Mini-heat grids are small-scale heat networks that use local heat sources, and focus on existing buildings.

Mini-heat grids allow people to use renewable heat sources from the local environment that they do not have access to on an individual level. Moreover, by bundling heat demand, economies of scale are created. Finally, this approach can unburden citizens and thereby accelerate the heat transition.‍

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This report identifies key steps and challenges in the development of these networks and formulates policy recommendations for local and provincial governments. ‍

The province plays a crucial role in supporting initiators by providing financial, technical and legal guidance. Efforts are also being made to create a learning network to promote knowledge sharing. The ultimate goal is to achieve a sustainable and efficient heat supply for local communities.

To guide municipalities through this issue, Ingenium created a "Heat Compass" that gives municipalities an initial understanding of how mini-heat grids work.

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For the development of this assignment we worked together with our partner Contutti. In this, Contutti took on the organization of sounding board groups and translation into concrete policy advice.

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