Ener-Vate appoints energy specialist to head up new team

Pete Nissen and Steve Hunt (Ener-Vate)

A new head of service who has been responsible for delivering low carbon heat to one of Europe’s largest mixed-use developments has been appointed by district heat specialist Ener-Vate.

Pete Nissen leaves his role as District Heat Project Manager at L&Q Energy where he worked on the Barking Riverside London project to lead the growth of Ener-Vate’s new business called Esco Asset Management Service (EAMS).

As the Government looks to heat networks to help power the UK’s green revolution, Ener-Vate works with local authorities, housebuilders and developers to help them set up and manage their own heating systems and support them with upcoming funding opportunities.

And, with up to 18% of heat in homes to come from heat networks by 2050, Pete’s new role of Head of EAMS will see him develop this service further for Ever-Vate, enhancing its capability for existing clients and bringing in new partners to build and strengthen the division.

Pete has 35 years’ experience in the construction and energy sector including his work for the heat supplier L&Q Energy where he managed the installation of a district heat network for L&Q’s Barking Riverside London – a joint venture with the Mayor of London – which will provide low carbon, low-cost heat for around 10,000 homes in East London.

Pete has also worked for major building services consultancies, including WSP, Fulcrum Consulting and Mott MacDonald. As a consultant his roles have varied from research facilities, museums, commercial, data centres, residential and district heating schemes. Pete also worked on several large housing developments including Centenary Quay and the Olympic Park.

Pete said: “I’m delighted to be joining Ener-Vate working alongside experienced and talented colleagues, and to build upon my influence within the energy sector. I’m looking forward to supporting clients in understanding network operations, improve performance and extend service life.

“As the industry decarbonises, being at Ener-Vate will enable me to have influence on a far greater scale, specifically targeted at the heart of district heating schemes, reducing carbon, introducing renewables and preparing schemes for a more environmentally responsible and sustainable future.”

Steve Marsh, Operations Director for Ener-Vate, part of Peel NRE, added: "We are delighted and proud to secure the services of Pete, who is well known and respected within the industry. Pete has a proven track record, at a senior level, within the decentralised energy sector and energy service company (ESCo) service delivery.

“His knowledge, skills and expertise will be invaluable and a great addition to our already industry leading team as we look to quadruple activity over the next five years.”

Founded in 2014, Ener-Vate’s has a wealth of knowledge in commercialising, delivering and operating successful district heating schemes across the country to promote the transition to low carbon technologies.

Its team continues to grow at pace and it currently works on the following projects:

• Clapham Park development in London with Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing

• Mersey Heat network at Peel L&P’s Liverpool Waters development

• Paddington Village with Liverpool City Council

• Barking Riverside London with L&Q Energy

• Award winning Leeds PIPES scheme on behalf of Leeds City Council

• Manchester City Council Heat Network

• Berkeley Homes East Thames – Plumstead

• Glasgow Waters Heat Network

Ener-Vate’s new EAMS service provides tailored industry and commercial contract advice to ensure district heat assets are performed as they are designed.