Reduced-order modelling and operational optimization of a high-density district heating network

• Published in: Results in engineering 2024-03, Vol.21, p.101719, Article 101719
• Main Authors: Lasonder, A., Nouri, R., Chaudhry, A.M., Huart, M., Latiers, A., Blondeau, J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: District heating network; Operational optimization; Reduce-order modelling
• ISSN: 2590-1230; 2590-1230
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2023.101719

This study focuses on the reduced-order modeling and the operational optimization of the heating network of Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) to decrease its energy consumption and CO2 emissions. A reduced-order model of the network was developed, and alternatives to the current operation were investigated to minimize its operational cost. As a very first improvement, replacing the current fixed-speed pumps with optimally operated variable-speed pumps, the pumping energy can be reduced by up to 96 %. Further optimizing the network operating temperatures can lead to a reduction of the pumping energy, the heat losses and the CO2 emissions by 99 %, 19 %, and 7 %, respectively, compared to the current operation. •A reduced-order model of a high-density District Heating Network was developed.•The operation of the DHN was optimized.•Pumping energy, heat losses and CO2 emissions can be reduced by 99 %, 19 %, and 7 %, respectively.