Proposals to create a city-wide network of low-carbon heating systems in Inverness have advanced, with councillors receiving an updated progress report at the Highland Council's Climate Change Committee meeting.

A feasibility study completed in May identified four key areas with the highest potential demand for a heat network: West Bank, Raigmore, Longman and Inverness city centre. A new vision statement has also been developed, setting out how heat networks could support the city’s decarbonisation targets and contribute to wider goals around sustainable and affordable energy.

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Chair of the Climate Change Committee, Councillor Kate Willis, said: "Heat networks can offer more sustainable and affordable heating by reducing carbon emissions and energy costs, bringing long-term benefits for our communities. The feasibility study highlights the significant opportunity to decarbonise heat across Inverness, and we are now exploring how these networks could be delivered."

The council has now completed an assessment of potential delivery models and is engaging with developers, investors and other partners to explore how the infrastructure could be funded and brought forward.