Previous studies have shown that Dutch industry and power stations are still discharging a huge amount of waste heat into the environment. Some of this (around 100 PJ/y) can readily be used: on-site, at other industrial facilities or in the built environment. This would save energy, cut CO2 emissions and reduce the adverse impacts of heat discharge on water quality. This exploratory study is a status report for policy-makers: what policies and legislation apply at the moment, what is the scope for waste heat utilization, what are the main barriers and how can these be addressed? The results provide concrete handles for more efficient use of currently wasted heat. The study was commissioned by Rijkswaterstaat (Water, Transport and Environment Division).