kaukolämmässä

Kaukolämpö, often translated as district heating, is a centralized system for distributing thermal energy for space and water heating. In a kaukolämpö system, heat is produced in a central power plant or a dedicated heat production facility. This heat can be generated from various sources, including the combustion of fossil fuels, biomass, waste incineration, or through geothermal energy. The heat is then transferred to a distribution network of insulated pipes filled with hot water or steam. This hot fluid is pumped from the production facility to individual buildings connected to the network.

Once the hot water or steam reaches a building, it passes through a heat exchanger. This device transfers the heat from the district heating fluid to the building's internal heating and hot water systems without the two fluids mixing. This allows for efficient transfer of thermal energy. The cooled water from the building is then returned to the central plant through a separate return pipe to be reheated and recirculated, creating a closed loop.

Kaukolämpö systems offer several advantages, including potentially lower emissions compared to individual heating systems, increased energy efficiency, and the ability to utilize a wider range of fuel sources, including renewable and waste heat. It is a common and established form of heating in many countries, particularly in urban areas with high population density. The initial investment in infrastructure can be significant, but the operational efficiencies and environmental benefits are often considered long-term advantages.