A Braintree couple, Terrence, 76, and Lesley Bridges, 75, have successfully reduced their monthly heating costs to just £40 after participating in a pioneering energy program. Instead of using a traditional gas boiler, they now rely on a data center comprising over 500 computer banks located in their shed to generate and transfer heat into their hot water system.
Previously, the Bridges were spending £375 monthly to heat their two-bedroom bungalow. Since the installation of the data center in December 2024, their bills have significantly decreased to a range of £40 to £70 per month. Terrence, a retired RAF sergeant, expressed relief at being able to comfortably heat their home without financial concerns.
The innovative HeatHub data center, developed by Thermify, forms part of UK Power Networks’ SHIELD project, aimed at assisting low-income households in transitioning to net zero energy consumption. The Bridges also had solar panels installed on their roof as part of the initiative.
Terrence Bridges commended the program, highlighting the efficient heat distribution throughout their bungalow. The couple opted to install the data center in their shed, citing concerns about disrupting their living space or garden aesthetics. The compact size of the system, equivalent to a chest freezer, accommodates the data center, battery, and converter.
Thermify’s CEO, Travis Theune, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing clean and affordable energy, with a focus on alleviating fuel poverty in the UK. The technology’s success in the Bridges’ home showcased significant reductions in carbon emissions and heating costs, prompting plans to expand the project to additional households.
Eastlight Community Homes’ Daniel Greenwood praised the collaboration with SHIELD partners and underscored the positive impact of innovative solutions like the Thermify Heat Hub on residential energy efficiency. UK Power Networks’ aim is to extend the project’s reach to support more households, ensuring inclusivity in adopting sustainable practices for a greener future.
