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Open Source District Heating Modeling Tools—A Comparative Study

Author

Listed:
  • Gregor Becker

    (Department of Energy, Building Services and Environmental Engineering, Münster University of Applied Sciences, 48565 Steinfurt, Germany)

  • Christian Klemm

    (Department of Energy, Building Services and Environmental Engineering, Münster University of Applied Sciences, 48565 Steinfurt, Germany
    Department of Energy and Environmental Management, Europa-Universität Flensburg, 24943 Flensburg, Germany)

  • Peter Vennemann

    (Department of Energy, Building Services and Environmental Engineering, Münster University of Applied Sciences, 48565 Steinfurt, Germany)

Abstract

Heating networks are highly relevant for the achievement of climate protection goals of urban energy systems. This is due to their high renewable energy potential combined with high plant efficiency and utilization rates. For the optimal integration and sector coupling of heating networks in holistic urban energy systems, open source energy system modeling tools are highly recommended. In this contribution, two open source approaches (the “Spreadsheet Energy System Model Generator”-integrated DHNx-Python module (DHNx/SESMG) and Thermos) are theoretically compared, and practically applied to a real-world energy system. Deviations within the results can be explained by incorrectly pre-defined parameters within Thermos and cannot be adjusted by the modeler. The simultaneity is underestimated in the case study by Thermos by more than 20%. This results in undersized heating plant capacities and a 50% higher number of buildings connected to the network. However, Thermos offers a higher end-user usability and over 100 times faster solving. DHNx/SESMG, in contrast, offers the possibility to adjust more model parameters individually and consider multiple energy sectors. This enables a holistic modeling of urban energy systems and the model-based optimization of multi-sectoral synergies.

Suggested Citation

  • Gregor Becker & Christian Klemm & Peter Vennemann, 2022. "Open Source District Heating Modeling Tools—A Comparative Study," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(21), pages 1-20, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:15:y:2022:i:21:p:8277-:d:964246
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    References listed on IDEAS

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