Minister for Local Energy and Employment Martin McAuley delivered a keynote address at the ADE Heat Network Conference. In his speech, he examined the role of heat networks as a key element in the transition to low-carbon energy. The Minister noted that the development of centralized heat supply systems can make a significant contribution to achieving the country's climate goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and decreasing dependence on traditional fossil fuel-based heat sources. According to him, heat networks enable efficient use of excess heat from industrial plants, power stations, and other sources, making them an important tool for improving energy efficiency at the local level. McAuley also addressed the creation of new jobs in the renewable energy sector and infrastructure projects related to modernizing heat supply systems. He stressed the need to attract investment in this sector and expressed the government's support for initiatives to expand heat networks across regions. The Minister's speech fits within the broader government strategy to achieve carbon neutrality and restructure the country's energy system. The ADE conference brought together industry representatives, experts, and policymakers to discuss the prospects for developing heat networks and their integration into the overall energy infrastructure.