London District Energy Infrastructure Project

London District Energy (LDE), with its roots dating back to the establishment of a central steam heating plant in 1878, was acquired by Enwave in 2017. Since the acquisition, over $60 million has been invested in continuous upgrades to enhance the system’s efficiency and sustainability. 

The LDE system is a network of underground pipes used for providing centralized heating and cooling to multiple buildings in an area, such as downtown London. At the heart of this system is a central production facility located at Bathurst and Colborne streets, which generates thermal energy. This energy is then distributed to various buildings, where it's used for heating in winter and cooling in summer. District energy systems are particularly effective in urban settings because they allow for the aggregation of thermal needs from multiple buildings, which can vary throughout the year, creating efficiencies of scale. 

LDE is undertaking a significant transition of its steam heat system in downtown London to address safety, efficiency, and reliability concerns.  

After rigorous investigations, LDE has determined that, despite regular maintenance of the system equipment, portions of the steam system will become increasingly unreliable and may pose safety concerns in the future. As a result, LDE notified certain customers in May 2024 that the portion of the steam system servicing their buildings would be decommissioned the following year.  

LDE has also made the difficult but necessary proactive decision to decommission additional parts of the steam network to ensure the safety and reliability of our services.  Service to parts of the steam network within the blue boundaries will terminate effective October 31, 2026. One additional customer will be disconnected effective October 31, 2027. We will work with all impacted customers to facilitate the switch to alternative heating sources, ensuring minimal disruption. 

LDE has made the difficult but necessary decision to decommission parts of the LDE steam network that are becoming increasingly unreliable and may pose safety concerns in the future. This decision underscores our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety, reliability and efficiency in our operations. 

As of October 31, 2026, steam service for customers within the blue boundaries shown on the map above will no longer be available. One additional customer will be disconnected effective October 31, 2027.

The decommissioning process is structured carefully in an effort to minimize any inconvenience and maintain continuity of service. We have made sure to provide impacted customers within each respective zone with ample notice to switch to alternative heating systems before the onset of the upcoming winter seasons. 

The timing for the completion of the entire decommissioning process will depend on the complexity and scope, but we are committed to progressing efficiently and will keep all stakeholders updated as we move forward. 

Our strategy involves constant monitoring and evaluation of the entire network to ensure it adheres to safety and reliability standards. We are currently completing an analysis of the remainder of the network. If our assessments highlight areas that pose safety and/or reliability risks, we will take the necessary actions to either upgrade or decommission those sections to uphold the safety, integrity and efficiency of our service delivery to customers.

The decommissioning of the portion of the steamline within the blue boundaries will impact 12 customers in total.

As we decommission some steam lines, LDE has informed reputable third-party heating service providers about the disconnections. These providers are ready to work with affected buildings to set up new heating services. A Community Liaison and a Project Manager will assist customers throughout the transition. Customers are free to choose recommended providers or select their own based on personal preferences and needs. 

Decommissioning of the steam line within the blue boundaries is slated for October 2026. Customers impacted by the decommissioning have been given ample notice to ensure that all customers have ample notice to prepare well before the 2026/2027 heating season begins to minimize any inconvenience and ensure a smooth transition. 

During this period, you will also have access to a dedicated Community Liaison and a Project Manager who will assist you in transitioning to new in-building heating solutions.  

We are committed to providing comprehensive support to all affected property owners during the transition to new heating solutions.  

You will have access to a dedicated Community Liaison and a Project Manager who will guide you through the process of transitioning to in-building heating solutions. This support is tailored to those who need detailed assistance throughout the transition. 

If you prefer to manage some aspects of the transition independently, our team is flexible and can adjust the level of support provided. We are here to assist as much or as little as you require, depending on your specific needs and preferences. 

No, you are not required to switch to the providers we recommended. While the reputable providers we suggested are ready and capable of servicing your area, you have the freedom to choose any supplier that best meets your personal needs and preferences. LDE is committed to ensuring you have access to reliable and efficient heating options and will assist in facilitating the transition with your chosen supplier. 

No, the decommissioning of steam lines will not impact your chilled water services. Your service will continue without interruption.

In May 2024, we notified an initial group of customers that the steam line within the red boundaries shown on the map here will no longer be in service as of May 31, 2025.

The construction involved in our decommissioning process is limited and will primarily take place in public areas. We are working closely with the City to ensure that all construction activities are carried out with the necessary permits and adhere to stringent safety measures.  

Our planning and execution are designed to be as timely as possible, minimizing disruption the community and ensuring that the impact on daily activities and the environment are minimal.