The concept of transitioning centralized heating systems in multi-apartment buildings to decentralized electric water heating

Abstract

In recent years, there have been significant changes in the perception of the feasibility of using electricity as a source of thermal energy for household heating systems. Electric boilers are considered an important element in the energy transition from the use of hydrocarbon fuels to renewable energy. For a modern comprehensive approach in assessing the feasibility of various heating systems, it is necessary to consider not only the operational costs but also the energy, environmental, economic requirements, safety of operation, and maintenance costs, from both the consumer’s perspective and in terms of the historically evolved role of the state and the social significance of providing heating to the population. This study compares these factors for centralized heating systems, apartment-based systems using wall-mounted gas boilers, autonomous systems using boilers on different types of fuel, and water electric heating systems. Conclusions are presented on the advisability of gradually transitioning the heating supply of multi-apartment buildings from centralized to individual apartment-based electric water heating.