Colloide, a leading process engineering company specialising in sustainable solutions, has been awarded the contract to undertake the first phase of decarbonising the Bloomsbury Heat and Power Network (BHPN). This initiative is a collaborative effort between the University of London, University College London (UCL), and SOAS University of London, aiming to reduce carbon emissions across the Bloomsbury estate by 99%.
The BHPN, which has been operational for over 80 years, currently serves more than 50,000 students across the participating institutions. The existing gas- and oil-fired systems will be replaced with low-carbon air source heat pumps and electric boilers. This project is expected to drive a substantial reduction in emissions, significantly advancing the universities’ net-zero carbon goals
A £7.2m grant from the Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) will partially fund this project, supporting the transition to sustainable heating solutions. The GHNF is a government-backed initiative aimed at developing low and zero-carbon heat networks across England.
The Bloomsbury project is scheduled for completion by 2030. Participating universities are also reviewing further decarbonisation opportunities through building fabric improvements and estate upgrades.
Stacey Drennan, Business Development Director at Colloide, commented:
“At Colloide, we’re passionate about delivering projects that make a real difference. The Bloomsbury Heat and Power Network is a fantastic example of how we can modernise essential infrastructure while dramatically cutting carbon emissions. It’s inspiring to work with institutions that share our commitment to sustainability, and we’re excited to bring our expertise to a project that will benefit both the environment and the thousands of students and staff who rely on this network every day."
About Colloide
Colloide is a highly skilled process engineering company with specialist expertise in water treatment, energy, environmental, and facilities engineering solutions. With over 20 years of experience, Colloide operates across Ireland and the UK, driven by a passion for creating sustainable solutions, delivering exceptional customer service, and technical excellence. The company undertakes roles as principal contractor, specialist sub-contractor, or equipment supplier, offering services ranging from design through to construction, installation, commissioning, maintenance, and overall project management.
Colloide has an established track record in delivering innovative low-carbon energy solutions. The Bunhill 2 Energy Centre, a pioneering project in London, repurposes waste heat from the London Underground to provide affordable, sustainable heating to over 1,000 homes and local buildings. Meanwhile, the Viking Energy Network in Jarrow is a UK-first initiative harnessing heat from the River Tyne, integrating renewable energy sources such as solar power and battery storage to supply efficient, low-carbon heating to council buildings and residential areas. These projects showcase Colloide’s expertise in designing and delivering important heat network solutions that contribute to the UK’s net-zero ambitions.
