A Braintree couple, Terrence, 76, and Lesley Bridges, 75, have successfully reduced their monthly heating expenses to £40 by participating in a new energy program trial. They replaced their gas boiler with a data center containing over 500 computer banks installed in their shed. This innovative system generates heat that is then channeled into their hot water system.
Previously, the couple spent £375 per month to heat their two-bedroom bungalow. However, since the installation of the data center in December 2024, their heating bills have significantly decreased to a range of £40 to £70 per month. Mr. Bridges, a retired RAF sergeant, expressed relief at not having to worry about heating costs anymore, especially given his wife’s health condition.
The HeatHub data center, developed by Thermify, is part of UK Power Networks’ SHIELD project aimed at helping low-income households transition to sustainable energy solutions. Mr. Bridges commended the program and highlighted the positive impact it has had on their home comfort and expenses.
Travis Theune, CEO of Thermify, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing clean and affordable energy solutions to combat fuel poverty in the UK. The innovative use of data center technology like the Thermify Heat Hub has proven to be effective in reducing carbon emissions and heating costs for households.
Daniel Greenwood from Eastlight Community Homes praised the collaboration with SHIELD partners in implementing the heat hub initiative, promoting energy efficiency and affordability for residents. The successful trial at the Bridges’ home has demonstrated significant carbon reductions and cost savings, paving the way for further expansion to benefit more households in the future.
UK Power Networks is dedicated to scaling up the SHIELD project to reach 100,000 units annually by 2030, ensuring that vulnerable and low-income households can access and benefit from sustainable technologies as the country transitions to a greener future.
