Thermodynamic analysis of low-temperature district heating network heat source

Abstract

Modern buildings have increased energy efficiencies in decreased heat demand, which enables implementation of new and change of current district heating solutions. Heat carrier can have positive effect on system energy efficiency, by improving heat generation efficiency, decreasing heat losses to surroundings and broader implementation of renewable energy sources. In this paper, theoretical district heating network thermodynamic calculations are performed in order to determine exergy efficiencies of heating networks when heating function is carried out by different heat sources – biofuel boiler and geothermal heat pump. It was determined that heat pump system has higher exergy efficiency than boiler system when low temperature heat carrier is prepared.