Fernando Plazas Cabral

Graduate Engineer

Fernando Plazas Cabral joined FairHeat as a Graduate Engineer in 2025. He graduated from University College London with a first-class honours MEng in Mechanical Engineering with Business Finance, developing a strong foundation in engineering principles alongside an interest in energy systems and low-carbon technologies.

During his studies, Fernando completed a year abroad at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he researched carbon dioxide recuperation systems for aviation. His academic work also included a capstone project designing a domestic heating and refrigeration system to improve solar panel efficiency and reduce hot water energy demand.

Since joining FairHeat, Fernando has gained experience across Quality Assurance and the Industry Standards team. He has supported policy and regulatory work, particularly on the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS), and contributed to projects on heat network tariffs following the introduction of Ofgem’s fair pricing principles. Through this, he has developed a strong understanding of heat network performance, standards, and regulation.

"I chose to join FairHeat because of its commitment to improving the UK’s heat network sector and driving higher standards across the industry. Through my studies, particularly my work on energy systems and improving the efficiency of heating and renewable technologies, I developed a strong interest in low-carbon energy and sustainable infrastructure, which naturally led me to work alongside industry leaders at FairHeat."