Utility Thermal Energy Networks in the U.S.

The Clinic has officially published its new report, Utility Thermal Energy Networks in the U.S., prepared by Farrah Ye and Dr. Jungwoo Chun for the DUSP Center for Renewable Energy and Climate Justice.

This report examines the growing role of utility-led thermal energy networks (UTENs) as a strategy for decarbonizing building heating and cooling. It provides a comprehensive overview of enabling legislation across states, analyzes trends in pilot programs, and explores how policy is shaping the transition away from natural gas toward networked thermal systems.

Some key findings:

• Multiple states have passed legislation allowing or mandating utilities to pilot UTEN projects

• Most states are currently in the demonstration phase, with pilot programs underway but limited large-scale deployment

• Environmental justice and workforce provisions are increasingly incorporated into UTEN legislation

• Utilities are being positioned as central actors in scaling thermal energy systems, though questions remain about public versus private ownership models

Read the full report below: