Investigating the potential for district heating networks with locally integrated solar thermal energy supply

Abstract

In this paper, a conceptual district heating networks model is developed for the integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies. The network model is based on thermal hydraulic calculations, which includes the design of the network structure with information of connections as nodes and edges. Additionally, it accounts for networks pipe mass flow rates, as well as pressure and temperature at network nodes (hot water feed-in and withdrawal) and head and thermal losses. The model is applied to a case study district comprising of 20 buildings with roof top solar collectors. The network layout is designed and the potential for integration of decentralised renewable energy and operational strategies are evaluated for the network design. In total, 30% of yearly solar fraction could be reached for the designed district network layout.