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The shift toward next-generation district heating and cooling networks (characterized by low- and ultra-low temperature grids) offers improved energy efficiency and greater potential for renewable integration. However, these systems face challenges in reliably supplying domestic hot water (DHW), which requires higher temperatures to ensure user comfort and hygienic safety. This study evaluates four scenarios for delivering both space heating (SH) and DHW in a district system, using optimization to determine the optimal supply and return temperatures that minimize total electricity consumption. Scenario 1 uses electric boilers for DHW; Scenario 2 employs a single decentralized heat pump for both SH and DHW; Scenario 3 introduces a booster heat pump for DHW; and Scenario 4 incorporates thermal storage with scheduled DHW production. Results show that Scenarios 2 and 3 significantly reduce electricity consumption compared to the others, with Scenario 3 achieving the lowest annual demand (520 [MWh/year]). Duration load curves also demonstrate improved load distribution, particularly in Scenario 3. The findings underscore the trade-offs between energy efficiency, system complexity, and hygienic safety, and suggest that further optimization of storage operation and comprehensive cost–benefit analyses will be essential in future planning.

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Optimizing the Next Generation of District Heating and Cooling Systems While Ensuring Reliable Domestic Hot Water Supply

  • 会议论文

  • 出版模式：

    开放获取

  • 发表日期：

    2026年

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  • Mohammad-Reza Kolahi,
  • Martin K. Patel

摘要

The shift toward next-generation district heating and cooling networks (characterized by low- and ultra-low temperature grids) offers improved energy efficiency and greater potential for renewable integration. However, these systems face challenges in reliably supplying domestic hot water (DHW), which requires higher temperatures to ensure user comfort and hygienic safety. This study evaluates four scenarios for delivering both space heating (SH) and DHW in a district system, using optimization to determine the optimal supply and return temperatures that minimize total electricity consumption. Scenario 1 uses electric boilers for DHW; Scenario 2 employs a single decentralized heat pump for both SH and DHW; Scenario 3 introduces a booster heat pump for DHW; and Scenario 4 incorporates thermal storage with scheduled DHW production. Results show that Scenarios 2 and 3 significantly reduce electricity consumption compared to the others, with Scenario 3 achieving the lowest annual demand (520 [MWh/year]). Duration load curves also demonstrate improved load distribution, particularly in Scenario 3. The findings underscore the trade-offs between energy efficiency, system complexity, and hygienic safety, and suggest that further optimization of storage operation and comprehensive cost–benefit analyses will be essential in future planning.