Abstract
A methodology for the GIS (Geographic Information System) based analysis of DH (District Heating) potentials is introduced and applied to the continental United States. The energy demand for space heating and hot water in the residential and commercial sector is assessed and spatially allocated using high resolution population distribution and land use data. Demand centers are identified and the overall heat demand and its density are extracted. For each of some 4800 agglomerations, average heat distribution costs are calculated and a CHP (combined heat and power) plant suitable in technology and capacity is selected. The results suggest that there is substantial potential for an extension of DH in the United States. Especially in the north eastern part of the country, a significant share of the demand is located in areas of high demand density. Heat distribution costs vary considerably, and are on average slightly lower in greater agglomerations and regions with high specific heat demands. The overall potential, its distribution to geographical regions and CHP technologies, as well as the average heat distribution costs are found to be strongly dependent on the assumed minimum heat demand density applied to classify the grid cells according their suitability for DH.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
