District Heating Competence Network

In order to reach climate targets, network-based heat supply is considered to play an essential role, as it can potentially provide heat from renewable energy in a highly cost-effective way. However, to exploit this potential, far-reaching and partly innovative adaptations of the existing infrastructure are necessary. To support the implementation of these mostly cost-intensive projects, an exchange with competent contacts with experience in these measures is essential.

Experience with Energy Efficiency Networks, which have been very successful since 1987, shows that the framework of these networks strengthens the exchange, competence building, and implementation of energy efficiency measures. Based on this structure, the District Heating Competence Network will strengthen the exchange on relevant challenges for district heating network operators and thus promote the implementation of innovative projects.

Procedure and Contents

Figure 1 shows the structure of the District Heating Competence Network. In addition to an initiation and conclusion phase, the main network activity takes place in the implementation phase. This three-year phase is subdivided into the following main parts: initial current-state analysis, target agreement, annual monitoring, energy technology hotline, and regular workshops.

Figure 1: Schematic representation of the course of a District Heating Competence Network

Figure 2: Overview of possible central topics of the District Heating Competence Network workshops

Conclusion phase

At the end of the network period, a joint closing event will take place. At this event, the achieved savings of the network and implemented projects are presented. In addition, a brochure with the most relevant projects will be assembled and made available to the public. On the one hand, this serves to present the achievements of the network to the public. On the other hand, it also encourages other heat network operators to add questions and suggestions for improvement into the discussion.

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