soojusteenuse

Soojusteenuse, often translated as district heating or thermal energy service, refers to a system for distributing heat generated at a central location to multiple buildings. This heat is typically produced by a power plant or a dedicated boiler and then transported through a network of insulated underground pipes to homes, businesses, and other establishments. The primary purpose of a soojusteenuse is to provide a reliable and efficient source of heat for space heating and hot water.

District heating systems can utilize various heat sources, including the combustion of fossil fuels like natural gas or coal, renewable energy sources such as biomass or geothermal energy, and even waste heat recovered from industrial processes or power generation. The adoption of renewable energy sources and waste heat integration is increasingly common as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency.

The infrastructure of a soojusteenuse involves a heat production plant, a distribution network of supply and return pipes, and substations within each building that transfer the heat from the network to the building's internal heating system. This centralized approach allows for economies of scale in heat generation and can lead to lower energy costs for consumers compared to individual heating systems. Furthermore, district heating can contribute to improved air quality in urban areas by concentrating emissions at a single, often better-controlled, point of generation. The concept is widely implemented in many countries, particularly in colder climates where heating is a significant energy demand.