A recent study by Berenschot in The Hague highlights the significant cost savings of district heating compared to individual heat pumps in urban areas. The research reveals that district heating is nearly 30% cheaper than individual heat pumps, even when considering all social costs. This affordability stems from the collective efficiency of heat networks, which also reduce the strain on electricity grids.
As these networks expand, both the cost of heat provision and the connection costs are expected to decrease. This is largely due to innovations such as Heat Highways, which can harvest waste heat from commercial and industrial sources, heat produced from surplus renewable power, and renewable heat from our coal mines and waterways. This harvested heat can then be distributed to villages, towns, and cities, ensuring a secure, clean, and low-cost source of energy.
Despite the potential savings and environmental benefits, many households are not yet benefiting from these networks. Increased support for connections and more investments from heating companies are necessary to bridge this gap. The study also finds that buildings connected to district heating networks could see their heating costs halved compared to those using individual heat pumps. Additionally, these networks help reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and prevent power grid congestion.
The findings from this new study underline the transformative potential of district heating for urban areas, promising a future where heating is not only more affordable but also significantly greener.
