Janine GriffithsResidents across Leeds will soon spot new plaques on local buildings connected to the city’s low-carbon heat network. The official launch took place on Wednesday 15th July at Trinity Academy Leeds in East Leeds. Year 8 student Chloe unveiled her winning design at the school event.
The new plaques will be displayed on schools, healthcare facilities, universities, civic spaces, and residential buildings. They create a recognisable identity for organisations using the Leeds PIPES network.
The Leeds PIPES network started in 2018. It now stretches over 30 kilometres across the city. The scheme has connected more than 4,100 homes and 30 public or commercial buildings. During 2025 alone, the network saved Leeds over 7,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. It has also delivered 430 jobs across the wider region.
Andrew Wightman, Regional Director at Vital Energi, said: “Chloe has produced a fantastic design and it’s great to see such strong enthusiasm for climate action from the next generation.”
Representatives from Leeds City Council and Vital Energi joined pupils for the unveiling ceremony. Attendees included Polly Cook, Chief Officer for Climate, Energy and Green Spaces at Leeds City Council. Vital Energi staff members Lisa Martin, Isabelle Humphreys, and Lucy Bennett also attended.
Around 240 Year 8 students took part in an assembly during the launch. The session explored how young people can shape a sustainable future. Students also learned about potential career options within the growing green energy sector. A smaller group of pupils joined an interactive workshop with climate activities and challenges.
Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “The Leeds PIPES network will provide residents and businesses with a way to access affordable and low carbon heating and also play a key part of the council’s strategy to become the UK’s first net zero city. These plaques offer a creative way for buildings to show they are a part of the network, and we look forward to seeing more of them in the future as it expands across the city.”
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