Optimisation and expansion of district heating systems

The expansion of district heating is envisaged as an important measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency and increase the share of renewable energy in environmental policy programmes. Achievable effects depend on the technology and efficiency of each generation plant and its interconnection, fuel used, distribution losses and use. In this report, the Federal Environment Agency describes and analyses the large district heating systems in Austria with regard to energy collection, distribution and use by consumers. Based on this, the potential of expanding district heating and impacts on energy efficiency, greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions will be evaluated. Measures leading to higher energy efficiency and lower emissions are mentioned.