Currently there is a progressive change undergoing on the heating and cooling demands of the building sector. Therefore, it is of high interest to find innovative solutions that meet the future energy demands in an efficient and cost effective way. A complementary approach on how to effectively service low-energy building (LEB) areas using the existing DH networks is the concept of a ‘low temperature’ DH substation. This LT substation uses the return water from the main DH network as the main substitute for the primary energy source, together with a minor portion of the main DH supply only. The LT substation could be a key link between LTDH  systems, renewable thermal energy sources, industrial surplus heat, thermal energy storage, and the heat demands of LEB areas, contributing to achieve a low-carbon, energy efficient and renewable energy supply.

José Fiacro Joined the EMJD SELECT+ programme in September 2013 to conduct his research within the field of Thermal Energy Generation and Distribution at KTH and EMN. He previously worked as a development engineer in power generation technologies for the private sector in Mexico. He holds an engineering degree in Mechatronics from Monterrey Tech, in Mexico City and a MSc. in Sustainable Energy Technologies from TU/e. His research interests cover smart energy networks and the integration of sustainable energy sources into the energy system.