Milan’s heating industry is due for a major upgrade in order to live up the promises of sustainability and a greener future. The city is a key player in the European Union’s ambitious energy and climate objectives and has assumed its role as a proactive advocate for sustainable urban development. As part of the EU’s Covenant of Mayors, an initiative aimed at curbing carbon emissions, Milan had pledged to reduce its CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020, with 2005 as the reference year. And that was only the starting point. The city’s Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan, unveiled in 2009, outlines a strategy to achieve this target, and in the following decade the plan evolved into a detailed Sustainable Energy Action Plan (SEAP), which outlined specific actions Milan’s local authorities had to implement. Notably, a key focus area identified in this plan is district heating. Milan recognizes the pivotal role district heating plays in its emission reduction goals, estimating that it alone could contribute nearly 10% toward the city’s 2020 target. By strategically analyzing its heating and cooling sector, Milan aims to optimize building efficiency. This forward-looking energy strategy not only aligns with EU objectives but also instills investor confidence for the city’s sustainable development. The SEAP, still under continuous development, will serve as a roadmap, validating and guiding Milan's district energy projects. The city is actively planning and developing district heating systems in harmony with both European and national legislation. This includes exploring innovative sources like waste heat from industrial sites, a move that not only boosts efficiency but also aligns with Milan’s vision for a resilient and sustainable future. With new goals being set for reduction in CO2 emissions set for 2030, Milan’s heating industry is on the verge of a new chapter in its development.