BENEFITS OF DISTRICT HEATING

Benefits to Local Authorities

District heating can provide numerous environmental, economic and social benefits for local authorities. 

For example, it can contribute significantly to EU and national energy targets, through a reduction in carbon emissions and a greater uptake in renewable energy. It is also a more flexible and reliable system and can provide a sustainable revenue stream for public sector organisations. District heating can also help reduce fuel poverty for the local authority’s tenants.

Benefits for Building Developers

District heating networks have advantages for developers over traditional heating systems.

For example, in Ireland, district heating is supported at national government level and satisfies planning and building regulations in a cost-effective, innovative way.

Financially, the upfront capital costs and the costs associated with apartment floor area lost to boilers are much lower with a district heating system. Maintenance costs and costs to the consumer are typically lower as well.

Connecting to a district heating system can also help to improve developer profiles and strengthen customer relationships, as it is an extremely reliable and safe technology, providing a steady, constant supply of heat 24 hours a day.

Benefits for Customers and Clients

The benefits of district heating for consumers include lower maintenance and energy bills, as well as improved indoor comfort and hot water on-demand 24 hours a day. District heating can also improve the energy ratings of buildings connected to it, potentially also increasing their value.

There are also health and safety benefits, as the absence of boilers and fuel storage reduces risks of fire, explosion and carbon monoxide buildup. As district heating networks are mostly fuelled by renewable and local energy, this also leads to improved air quality. It is also much quieter than traditional heating systems.

District heating also has wider societal and environmental benefits for consumers, such as the creation of green jobs and reduction of fuel poverty. Its environmental benefits include reduced carbon emissions, therefore contributing to EU and national carbon reduction targets, and reduced dependency on fossil fuels and international markets.