05 December 2023

Model Predictive Control as a System Integrator in a Heat Pump-Driven District Heating Network

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Though often seen as distinct ways to decarbonise the (residential) heating sector, heat pumps and district
heating can complement each other. Their integration is crucial for decarbonizing current and future district
heating networks. However, as these integrated systems tend to become very complex, today’s rule-based
controllers might lead to suboptimal operation and low system efficiencies. This article shows the potential of
model predictive control to increase the efficiency of a heat pump-driven district heating network at equal or
better thermal comfort.