Summary
A couple in Essex is using a data center in their garden shed to heat their home, significantly lowering their monthly energy bills from £375 to between £40 and £60. This system, called a HeatHub, captures heat generated by over 500 mini-computers processing data, which is then used to warm their home. The program is part of a broader project to create eco-friendly solutions for low-income households.
Key Facts
- Terrence and Lesley Bridges are using a data center in their garden shed to heat their home.
- Their energy bills have dropped from £375 a month to as low as £40.
- The HeatHub contains over 500 small computers that generate heat as they process data.
- The project, supported by UK Power Networks' SHIELD project, aims to help low-income households transition to eco-friendly energy solutions.
- The Bridges' home also has solar panels and a battery, which contribute to energy savings.
- The HeatHub system was developed by Thermify and is part of a pilot program.
- Thermify plans to have clients pay them to process data, providing "clean, green heat" at little to no cost to households.
- Eastlight Community Homes, the Bridges' landlord, hopes to extend the HeatHub installation to 50 more homes.
