Reducing return temperatures is one of the largest challenges of heat network operators. However, what can an operator do to reduce return temperature through commercial management and what contractual mechanisms have proven successful in other countries?
UK heat networks have on average much higher supply and return temperatures than that of Sweden. Swedish heat networks typically operate with supply temperatures of 70°C and return temperatures around 40-50°C and the discussion is currently on how to deliver the 4th generation heat networks with even lower temperature networks. However, in the UK, the discussion still focuses on reducing return temperatures from very high levels (80-90°C) to 60-70°C.
In a recent workshop, Swedish and British researchers, ESCOs, consultants and technology suppliers engaged in a workshop trying to identify best practices in commercial management of return temperatures in a UK market context. The discussion resulted in five key conclusions.
More information:
If you have any specific questions regarding the workshop or wish to see a more detailed summary of the discussion topics and conclusions, please contact the Heat Networks team.
Swedish participants during the workshop were Sweco, FVB, Research Institutes of Sweden, the Swedish Environmental Research Institute, Halmstad University, SWEP, Norrenergi, Business Sweden and the Swedish Energy Agency.
Sweden is at the forefront of decentralised heat networks technology. Our aim for “Heat Networks – Sustainability by Sweden” is to facilitate knowledge sharing between British and Swedish stakeholders and develop and encourage environmental and economic best practice.
To find out how we can help you and your organisation, please contact our London-based “Heat Networks” team. We can introduce you to leading consultants, suppliers of technology and services who will be pleased to share know-how of the development of heat network solutions.