WP03

Technologies, design, and operation of thermal grids for future energy planning

Abstract:

Thermal grids are essential for the energy transition of the Swiss building stock. In this work package, we determine boundary conditions and optimal ways of integrating renewables and storages in thermal grids. We deduce grid design concepts that optimally exploit all available temperature levels for both, heating, and cooling. Robust control algorithms will be developed and tested in dynamic simulations as well as experiments. System costs will be estimated. The findings will be condensed and simplified in tools and guidelines for local energy planning and for inclusion in WP01 and WP06.

Objectives:

Thermal grids allow to distribute renewable energy and to recycle waste heat from cooling for heating. WP03 develops technical solutions for future thermal grids and grid-connected applications like thermal storages. It further develops a solid understanding of new thermal grid concepts and its underlying control algorithms to form a base for future energy planning.

Tasks:

  • T3.1 Representative cases for renewables and storages in thermal grids
  • T3.2 Technology options for the integration of renewables in thermal grids
  • T3.3 Technology options for storages in thermal grids
  • T3.4 Design and control of future thermal grids for heating and cooling
  • T3.5 Local energy planning for future thermal grids

Technology Readiness Level (TRL): from 3 to 6

Expected Outcomes / Milestones:

  • Work package initiated, interaction and data exchange between tasks established.
  • Representative cases and technology options for renewables and storages defined.
  • Thermal grid design and control defined.
  • Elements of surrogate model defined.

Duration: January 2021 - December 2024 (48 months)

Lead: Dr. Willy Villasmil (HSLU-IGE), Prof. Stefan Mennel (HSLU-IGE)

Publications: see list here.

Team: