Küttevõrgud

Küttevõrgud, often translated as heating networks or district heating systems, are a centralized method of supplying heat to multiple buildings from a single source. This source can be a power plant, an industrial facility, or a dedicated heating plant. The heat is then distributed through a network of insulated pipes that carry hot water or steam to homes, businesses, and other structures.

The fundamental principle behind küttevõrgud is efficiency and economy of scale. By generating heat in a large, centralized facility, it is often possible to utilize more efficient and environmentally friendly combustion technologies, such as combined heat and power (CHP) plants that produce both electricity and heat simultaneously. This can lead to lower energy consumption and reduced emissions compared to individual heating systems in each building.

The infrastructure of a küttevõrk consists of a production facility, a distribution network of underground pipes, and substations in each connected building. These substations act as interfaces, transferring the heat from the network to the building's internal heating system. The temperature and flow of the heat are controlled to meet the demand of the connected consumers.

Küttevõrgud are common in urban areas and densely populated regions where the cost of laying the extensive pipe network is justified by the number of customers served. They offer advantages such as reliable heating, reduced maintenance for individual property owners, and the potential to integrate various heat sources, including renewable energy like geothermal or biomass. However, the initial investment for establishing such a network can be substantial.