Betting on district heating is key to futureproofing our energy systems

In the Northern Hemisphere, the heating season has begun, providing an apt opportunity to spotlight our heat supplies in conversations about the green transition of our energy system. At recent gatherings in Copenhagen , Brussels , Stirling and most recently Berlin , Danish decision-makers, experts and solution providers have made the case for putting district energy centre stage. And the global imperative for doing so is abundantly clear.

Heat comprises half of the world’s total energy consumption and accounts for more than 40 percent of global energy-related CO2 emissions. As climate effects intensify and urban populations grow, the demand for sustainable heating and cooling solutions becomes more urgent. The energy system of tomorrow calls for solutions that are green, flexible, resilient and socioeconomically feasible. Few solutions embody these qualities as well as district heating and cooling – something that Denmark has long known to be true.

For over a century, and through several energy crises, district energy has been a cornerstone of Denmark's efforts to address the ever-changing needs of its citizens and energy systems, proving its resilience and adaptability.

Today, Denmark is, once again, betting on district energy as a core solution in the next phase of the green transition of our energy system. With its fuel flexibility, storage opportunities and high energy efficiency district energy enhances our energy security, enables the integration of renewables and, ultimately, plays a key role in ensuring that Denmark’s goals of 70 percent emissions reductions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050 are within reach.

In the aftermath of the most recent energy crisis, it is evident that other European countries are also looking to district energy to futureproof their energy system. The momentum is only bolstered by REPower EU and the Fitfor55’ package , which have rekindled the ambitions of several countries to develop heating and cooling networks.

Against this backdrop, we hope that the Danish perspectives and solutions shared in our brand-new white paper can be a source of inspiration. With contributions from several key Danish energy sector players, including the Danish Energy Agency, Danish Board of District Heating, and Danish Industry, the white paper explores district heating’s potential to mitigate climate impacts and bolster energy security.

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Maria Lind Arlaud

Project Manager (District Energy & Green Transition of Industries)

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