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Improving thermal performance of existing UK district heat network: a case for temperature optimization

Tunzi, Michele; Boukhanouf, Rabah; Li, Hongwei; Svendsen, Svend; Ianakiev, Anton

Authors

Michele Tunzi

Hongwei Li

Svend Svendsen

Anton Ianakiev



Abstract

This paper presents results of a research study into improving energy performance of small-scale district heat network through water supply and return temperature optimization technique. The case study involves establishing the baseline heat demand of the estate’s buildings, benchmarking the existing heat network operating parameters, and defining the optimum supply and return temperature. A stepwise temperature optimization technique of plate radiators heat emitters was applied to control the buildings indoor thermal comfort using night set back temperature strategy of 21/18 °C. It was established that the heat network return temperature could be lowered from the current measured average of 55 °C to 35.6 °C, resulting in overall reduction of heat distribution losses and fuel consumption of 10% and 9% respectively. Hence, the study demonstrates the potential of operating existing heat networks at optimum performance and achieving lower return temperature. It was also pointed out that optimal operation of future low temperature district heat networks will require close engagement between the operator and the end user through incentives of mutual benefit.

Citation

Tunzi, M., Boukhanouf, R., Li, H., Svendsen, S., & Ianakiev, A. (2018). Improving thermal performance of existing UK district heat network: a case for temperature optimization. Energy and Buildings, 158, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2017.11.049

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Nov 22, 2017
Online Publication Date Nov 23, 2017
Publication Date Jan 1, 2018
Deposit Date Nov 28, 2017
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Energy and Buildings
Print ISSN 0378-7788
Electronic ISSN 1872-6178
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 158
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2017.11.049
Keywords Plate radiators, temperature optimization, low temperature district heating, heat network modelling
Public URL https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/902356
Publisher URL http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378778817328360

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