Optimizing temperatures of supply/ return pipes is one of the key measures to achieve higher grid efficiency and lower heat and water loses

Assessment of energy losses in the district heating grid is important for future investments and regular maintenance of the distribution network; better design, dimensioning and operation of the grid, heat exchangers and water pumps, are main drivers to efficient DH system

Actions to improve grids and make them smart; the inclusion of remote metering systems with a combination of improved metering standards

Identification of cost-effective approaches to optimize DHS, with emphasis on benchmark analysis of different DH systems; benchmark analyses focus on technical efficiency and financial indicators to recognize the best approaches

National strategic documents in the field of district heating and cooling compose the sectoral legal framework - its review shows that the key strategic issues in DHC sector are not yet or well resolved; approach towards planning of DHC networks, taking consideration of spatial aspects, is presented in a detailed manner through the practical case of DH system in the Municipality of Maribor - this includes review of methodology and the demonstration of GIS tool implementation; the evaluation of heat demand and geothermal potential, preparation of heat map and principal of smart energy system integration are explained in detail