On 9th of October, Shivali Mathur, Associate for Energy Transition, spoke at a panel discussion, representing Amberside Advisors at the ‘District Heat Networks – Getting in the Zone’ event, organised by IPFA and hosted by Addleshaw Goddard in Edinburgh.
Bringing her experience from years spent working with the heat network sector, both in the commercial advisory role, but also from her time at DESNZ, Shivali joined a panel of experts, alongside:
Paul Steen, Head of Business Development North at Vattenfall,
Stephen Vere, Senior Associate Director at Scottish Future Trust,
David Cruickshank, Partner at Addleshaw Goddard – as moderator,
to share insights into how the new regulatory landscape will shape the delivery of heat network projects, highlighting the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Both Shivali and Mark Easter, our Head of Commercial Advisory, who was also in attendance, agreed the event provided a very good opportunity for Amberside Advisors to connect with our clients and fellow IPFA members, who are active in Scotland and are interested in exploring opportunities in the heat sector.
The event brought together many representatives of the heat networks industry, with senior stakeholders from across the whole supply chain in attendance. The panel discussion was very insightful and engaging, the Q&A extremely fruitful and the networking session beneficial to all who stayed behind to connect.
“It was a pleasure to be part of such a dynamic discussion with fellow panellists from Vattenfall, Addleshaw Goddard and Scottish Futures Trust, exploring critical themes like demand assurance and the need to bring scale and pace to heat network delivery.
The thoughtful queries from attendees enriched the conversation, delving into innovative approaches to financial modelling and the importance of rebalancing fuel prices. Crucial role of supply chain readiness was also highlighted whilst we explored various routes to market to meet the sector’s needs.
My key takeaway was the emphasis on whole system thinking—recognizing that for heat networks to thrive, we need to approach the challenge holistically, considering everything from regulation to practical delivery.” commented Shivali.