Scottish Government Opens Public Sector Clean Heat Development Fund

Support for feasibility work on heat networks and off-grid decarbonisation

The Scottish Government has opened the Public Sector Clean Heat Development Fund to support early-stage development work for clean heat projects in Scotland’s public sector estate.

Grant support is intended to help organisations assess and prepare projects, rather than deliver construction. Awards of up to £30,000 are available for project development activity under two themes:

• The first theme supports work to examine the feasibility and likely costs of connecting public sector buildings to existing heat networks located in designated heat network zones. This can include assessing technical options and identifying practical steps needed to connect eligible buildings to established networks.

• The second theme focuses on public sector buildings that are off the gas grid. Under this strand, applicants can seek support to assess the feasibility and expected costs of decarbonising heat sources, helping organisations understand the options for reducing emissions in properties that do not have access to mains gas.

Applications are accepted from public sector organisations in Scotland. Eligible applicants include local authorities, universities and Scottish Government bodies. Supported projects must be completed by 31 March 2027.