New District-Heating System Economic Factors Vary with Different Supply Temperatures

摘要

District heating has been in use for many years and offers economic, environmental, and energy conservation benefits. A new district heating system may be based on either a steam or hot water distribution system. The supply media choice is based upon the composition of the load and other factors. This report discusses the relative advantages of steam vs hot water systems and between hot water systems of varying temperatures. Points of comparison include: capital costs, cogeneration efficiencies, building conversion costs, operating and maintenance costs, energy losses, maximum transport distances, and cooling applications. The major conclusion is that a thorough analysis of the market, including building equipment and consumer requirements, is essential in designing a district heating system and is of primary importance in determining the optimum supply temperature. (ERA citation 07:063207)