kaugküttvõrgu

Kaugküttvõrk, often translated as district heating network, is a system designed to distribute thermal energy from a central source to multiple buildings for heating and hot water purposes. This centralized approach allows for more efficient energy production and utilization compared to individual heating systems in each building. The heat is typically generated in a combined heat and power (CHP) plant, where electricity is produced alongside thermal energy, or in dedicated boiler plants that may utilize various fuel sources such as natural gas, biomass, or waste.

The network consists of a system of insulated pipes that carry hot water or steam from the generation plant to the consumers. These pipes are usually buried underground. At the point of delivery to each building, a heat exchanger transfers the heat from the network's medium to the building's internal heating system. This separation prevents the mixing of the network water with the building's water. The primary advantages of kaugküttvõrk include reduced emissions, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced reliability of heat supply, especially in densely populated urban areas. They also offer flexibility in fuel choices, allowing for the use of renewable or waste heat sources. The implementation and maintenance of such networks require significant initial investment and careful planning.