Analysis of the applicability of fifth-generation district heating and cooling systems for community zero energy renovation

This study evaluates the applicability of Fifth-Generation District Heating and Cooling (5GDHC) systems for achieving community-scale zero energy renovations. As urban areas face increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, the need for renovation way of district energy system has been critical.

The 5GDHC system, characterized by its decentralized, low-temperature network and the integration of renewable energy sources, offers significant potential for reducing the energy consumption and carbon footprint of existing building and communities. This research involves a comprehensive analysis of the 5GDHC system’s performance in a community towards zero energy renovation.

The study examines key factors such as system efficiency, integration with existing infrastructure, and the ability to meet the heating and cooling demands of various building types within the community. Both dynamic simulations and field data are used to assess the energy performance of the 5GDHC system, considering seasonal variations and different operational scenarios.

Additionally, this study explores the economic feasibility of implementing the 5GDHC system, including initial investment costs, operational savings, and potential incentives. The analysis also considers the system’s scalability and adaptability to different urban environments, with a focus on maximizing the use of local waste heat recovery. The findings reveal that the 5GDHC system can significantly contribute to achieving zero energy goals at the community level, providing substantial energy savings and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The system’s flexibility and compatibility with various building types and existing energy infrastructure make it a promising solution for large-scale energy retrofitting projects.