What is the Future of Sustainable Heating?
The Future of Sustainable Heating: Implementation of Low-Temperature District Heating in Valmiera
Rising energy prices, CO₂ emission taxes, and aging heating systems make the transformation of the heating and cooling sector inevitable. If current practices continue, heating costs will only increase. Therefore, new solutions are needed to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and ensure an economically sustainable heating supply.
These issues were discussed in Valmiera on February 4–5, where partners of the Green4HEAT project and experts from eight European countries gathered to exchange knowledge and explore the implementation of low-temperature district heating (LTDH) networks.
Green4HEAT Project Partners: Progress Evaluation and Future Directions
The Green4HEAT project partners met to assess the progress made so far and to discuss the next steps in developing sustainable heating and cooling systems in Europe. The event featured presentations on policy instruments and best practices from various European countries, showcasing different approaches to modernizing the heating sector. Experts also analysed the challenges municipalities face when transitioning to LTDH and the lessons learned from regions where such systems have already been introduced.
International Working Group: From Theory to Practical Simulations
An international working group, organized by the Vidzeme Planning Region in collaboration with Riga Technical University (RTU), focused on practical solutions for the adoption of low-temperature district heating networks and their adaptation in Latvia and other countries.
The working group explored best practice examples from different European countries where LTDH networks have already been successfully implemented. Experts presented concrete strategies for optimizing energy consumption, reducing CO₂ emissions, and improving heating supply sustainability. To deepen understanding, participants engaged in a practical exercise using a simulation tool developed by RTU.
"This simulation exercise showed that a successful transition to LTDH requires not only technological advancements but also strategic planning and collaboration between municipalities, heating service providers, and residents. Political support and appropriate financial mechanisms are also crucial," noted Vladimirs Kirsanovs, researcher at RTU.
Valmiera’s Experience: A Biomass Boiler House as a Model for Sustainable District Heating
Meeting participants visited the Valmiera biomass boiler house, located on Dakstiņu Street, where they were able to observe efficient and fully automated heating processes. Commissioned in 2020, the plant includes a 9 MW biomass boiler and a 1.5 MW flue gas condensation economiser, producing up to 93% of the heat supplied to the right bank of the Gauja River in Valmiera.
The boiler house features state-of-the-art technologies that reduce emissions and improve air quality. Its modernization aims to increase system reliability, enhance energy efficiency, reduce CO₂ emissions, and ensure compliance with EU environmental protection regulations.
"Investment in biomass heating systems is not only an investment in energy independence but also in the local economy. It reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels and ensures stable long-term energy prices," emphasized Egils Kampuss, Production Director at Adven Latvia.