E.ON and Amey have announced plans to collaborate on expanding low-carbon heating in Sheffield, beginning in the Lower Don Valley.

The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore how they can jointly extend the city's district heating network while improving public spaces, green areas and local biodiversity. The partnership brings together expertise in energy, infrastructure and environmental management.

The scheme, powered by E.ON's Blackburn Meadows biomass plant, supports Sheffield's ambition to become a zero-carbon city by 2030.

The expansion will add 10km to the existing 8km network, connecting more homes, businesses and public buildings across the Lower Don Valley, while enhancing local habitats and highways.

Natalie Keogh, Director of City Quarter Partnerships and Heat Solutions at E.ON, said: "We need innovative, cleaner ways to heat our homes and businesses. District heating schemes, like ours in the Lower Don Valley, can help advance sustainable energy for Sheffield.

"By leveraging Amey's infrastructure expertise, we can expand our network and provide a more affordable, resilient, and sustainable energy source for the city - one that creates green jobs, brings warmth to the community, and helps Sheffield meet its environmental goals."

James Bulleid, Business Director at Amey, added: "By combining our expertise in the energy transition, we are delighted to work with E.ON to accelerate Sheffield's move towards a low-carbon future. Our partnership will deliver purpose-built solutions, generate social value, and provide a co-ordinated approach to local infrastructure improvements."

Over the coming months, E.ON and Amey will advance planning to future-proof city infrastructure and improve the quality of the local environment. The project is a key part of Sheffield City Council's decarbonisation plans and aligns with UK Government Heat Network Zoning policy, with Sheffield identified as one of six pioneering cities.