Heat Pumps in Large District Heating Networks
Optimal Installation of Heat Pumps in Large District Heating Networks
Martina Capone, Elisa Guelpa, Vittorio Verda
Energy Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca Degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
Published in: Energies, 2023, 16(3), 1448. DOI: 10.3390/en16031448
Introduction
Power-to-heat technology plays a crucial role in decarbonizing energy systems. The integration of large-scale heat pumps (LHPs) within district heating networks provides a cost-effective and flexible solution for enhancing the use of renewable energy sources. This study examines how the economic and environmental benefits of heat pump installation vary based on location within the network.
Methodology
The analysis follows an integrated approach, incorporating:
- Thermo-fluid dynamic modeling to simulate mass-flow rates, temperatures, and pressure distributions within the district heating system.
- Heat pump performance evaluation, accounting for variations in coefficient of performance (COP) depending on network conditions.
- Exergy analysis, comparing efficiency and energy savings across different locations.
- Mass-flow rate control strategies, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions by optimizing flow adjustments.
Key Findings
This methodology is applied to a large district heating network in Italy, demonstrating that installing a 4 MWe heat pump in a 305 MWt system can lead to:
- Up to 4% reduction in CO2 emissions when optimally positioned.
- A decrease in system inefficiencies by strategically adjusting mass-flow rates.
- Potential cost savings by enhancing thermal energy distribution efficiency.
These results underscore the importance of strategic placement when integrating power-to-heat solutions into district heating systems, ensuring maximum economic and environmental impact.