New energy centre at 'beating heart' of food production hub unveiled

The new centre at the former Celanese site in the city

A new energy centre described as the "beating heart" of a food production and distribution hub has been unveiled.

The centre at SmartParc Segro Derby is a shared heating and cooling system, which recycles heat and redistributes it across the site.

Derby City Council described it as a "future-proofed energy balancing system".

It is thought to be the first of its kind in the food industry, the authority added.

The SmartParc development, previously described as a "food campus", is a food production and distribution space at the former Celanese site in Spondon.

It is expected to create 5,000 new jobs.

The council said a critical part of the scheme was to deliver low-carbon, collaborative food production on the site.

It has also said it is estimated that the system will provide annual carbon emission savings of about 27,000 tonnes, compared to an equivalent system, between 2024 and 2030.

According to SmartParc, a minimum annual seasonal efficiency of 400% is guaranteed to tenants - over four times more efficient than gas boilers.

Jason Dalby, head of strategic land at Segro, said: "A key part of our shared vision for SmartParc Segro Derby and part of the unique appeal of the development is to help building occupiers reduce their costs as well as their carbon emissions.

"Alongside high-quality, sustainable buildings and investment in renewable power generation, the energy centre is a vital component of how we are achieving this."

Councillor Baggy Shanker, leader of Derby City Council, said: "Innovation is at the heart of everything we do in Derby and SmartParc is a perfect example of this.

"I started my career on this very site 35 years ago and worked there for 23 years so it's really special to see it regenerated and creating thousands of jobs for local people.

"Developments like the energy centre are essential in putting Derby on the map as a centre for excellence, innovation and sustainability."