East Village is powered by a District Heating System - a shared, energy-efficient network that supplies heating and hot water to every home and business across the neighbourhood. It’s one of the largest and most advanced systems of its kind in the UK, designed to reduce carbon emissions and support a more sustainable way of living.
How it works
Instead of individual gas boilers, heat for East Village is produced centrally at the King’s Yard Energy Centre on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The Energy Centre uses Combined Heat and Power (CHP) technology to generate both electricity and heat at the same time. The captured heat travels through a network of underground insulated pipes to every connected building in East Village, providing reliable heating and hot water all year round.
Why it matters
- Lower carbon footprint: Centralised generation is more efficient than individual boilers, helping reduce emissions across the community.
- Consistent and reliable: The system is monitored 24/7 to ensure a steady supply of hot water and heating.
- Safer and simpler: No individual gas meters, flues, or pilot lights to worry about.
- Future-ready: The network can be upgraded over time to use renewable energy sources like heat pumps or waste-heat recovery.
FAQs
Why doesn’t my home have a gas boiler?
East Village homes are connected to the district heating network. Heat and hot water come from the central Energy Centre through underground pipes, rather than a gas boiler inside your home.
What’s the silver box in my utility cupboard?
That’s your Heat Interface Unit (HIU) - it controls heating and hot water in your home and measures how much energy you use. It works much like a personal boiler but without burning gas.
How do I pay for heating and hot water?
You’re billed based on actual usage, measured by your heat meter. Your account, billing, and meter readings are managed by East London Energy (ELE), the energy provider for East Village.
Who do I contact if I have no heating or hot water?
- Check your HIU is powered and the valves are open.
- If it’s still not working, contact Get Living Resident Services first — they’ll help identify whether it’s an in-home issue or a network problem.
- 📞 Resident Services: 020 3714 8080
- 📧 Email: residents.e20@getliving.com
- For billing or meter enquiries, contact East London Energy (ELE):
- 📞 ELE Customer Service: 0800 999 5080
- 🌐 Website: www.eastlondonenergy.co.uk
Is the system environmentally friendly?
Yes - district heating uses energy far more efficiently than traditional heating systems. The network is also designed to adapt to greener heat sources in the future, further cutting emissions.