Fuelling Progress: The Insider’s Guide to HNES Application Success
The Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES) stands at the forefront of the UK's push towards more sustainable and efficient heat networks. It aims to fix heating systems that aren't working well, which affects both consumers and operators. This initiative is not just a financial boon for public, private, and third-sector applicants but a pivotal step towards enhancing existing district and communal heating projects.
Elevate Everywhere has worked on projects from both ends of the HNES pipeline, from applications to funded works. Having learned from experience how to distill a heat network’s various inefficiencies into a winning application, we are eager to share some tips on how to maximise applicants’ chances of funding.
Understanding HNES
At its core, HNES is dedicated to remedying the operational inefficiencies plaguing many existing heat networks, which often result in suboptimal outcomes for both consumers and operators. Its guidance accurately points out that heat networks have immense potential for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but the reality is that not all networks operate at their peak, leading to customer dissatisfaction and elevated operational costs. As such, the scheme serves a dual purpose: addressing customer detriment while simultaneously paving the way for the sector's compliance with upcoming regulatory and technical standards, like the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) which is due to launch across the UK in 2025. Heat network regulations have already launched in Scotland under the Heat Networks (Scotland) Act 2021.
Crafting a Successful HNES Application
Engage Early and Seek Support: Applicants are encouraged to engage with the HNES team early in the process, leveraging available resources and seeking clarification on any aspects of the application process or scheme objectives. Active engagement and clear communication can streamline the application process and enhance your project's alignment with HNES goals.
Eligibility and Scope: Before diving into the application, make sure your project aligns with HNES criteria. The scheme only supports existing heat networks in England and Wales, not ones currently in development. There is public funding for new heat networks through the Green Heat Network Fund, which is not the subject of this article but something we can help with as well.
Craft a Compelling Narrative: When filling out your application, particularly the project narrative sections, clarity and detail are your allies. Showcase how your proposed improvements will meet the scheme's aims, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction. The narrative should vividly outline the project's strategic rationale, the specific customer benefits, and the expected operational improvements.
Robust Data Presentation: Presenting a detailed baseline of current network performance alongside quantified targets for improvement can significantly bolster your application. This data not only underscores the necessity of the proposed enhancements but also demonstrates your commitment to monitoring and optimising network performance post-implementation.
Funding and Budgeting Precision: A well-structured budget, accompanied by a realistic and detailed project plan, proves to assessors your project's feasibility and your organisation's capability to deliver. Be transparent about the cost implications of your proposed measures, including how the HNES grant will complement your own investment in the project.
Monitoring, Reporting, and Continuous Improvement: Highlight your strategy for ongoing performance tracking, reporting, and leveraging the insights gained from the project to drive continuous improvement across your network or portfolio. This approach signals a long-term commitment to operational excellence beyond the immediate scope of the HNES-funded project.
What to Avoid!
Underestimating the Importance of Detail: Every section of your application should be filled out with attention to detail, providing clear, concise, and comprehensive information. Incomplete or vague applications are less likely to succeed.
Neglecting the Customer Perspective: Remember, a significant goal of HNES is to alleviate customer detriment. Applications that fail to clearly articulate the customer benefits or do not prioritize projects with a high proportion of "customers in need" may not fare as well.
Overlooking Eligibility Criteria and Funding Exclusions: Ensure your project aligns with the eligible categories and avoids the explicitly listed funding exclusions. Misalignment with these criteria can lead to immediate disqualification.
Successfully navigating the HNES application process requires a blend of strategic planning, detailed operational understanding, and a keen focus on both customer and environmental benefits. By avoiding the common pitfalls described above, applicants can significantly increase their chances of securing funding. This not only fuels progress towards affordable energy and more efficient heat networks, but ensures that your heat network will be ready for any forthcoming regulations and technical standards.
Contact helpline@elevateeverywhere.com today to discuss how to maximise your existing funding or for support in your application for the current HNES round of funding, due 26th July 2024. Or, if you’re in a rush, use our live chat. Queries about the Green Heat Network Fund are welcome, too.