Robust Design of 5th Generation District Heating and Cooling (5GDHC) Systems with Seasonal Thermal Energy Storage via GIS Assessment

Abstract

This research addresses the need for a method to compare waste heat potential and recovery in 5th Generation District Heating and Cooling (5GDHC) systems. Prosumer buildings, known for enhancing flexibility, are analyzed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and image vectorization to evaluate 5GDHC systems. The study predicts the amount of waste heat available with an R2 of 0.96, utilizing Chaikin's algorithm to refine thermal images for automatic recognition of the sources of waste heat. Emphasis is placed on the absence of a method for asset design in 5GDHC, with considerations for annual energy calculations, radial network connections, and energy shares among building types. Recommendations for building connecting in Belgium are proposed, favoring 'B'/'C'-labeled buildings. The research explores the impact of building design on heating and suggests energy savings through regulation strategy changes. Dynamic models for heat pumps aim to reduce errors and emissions. The study connects energy indicators and GIS software, contributing to a top-down design approach in 5GDHC systems. The overall goal is to contribute to decarbonization and reduce CO₂ emissions in the energy sector.