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Flexibility – the backbone of future district heating
The energy transition demands flexibility everywhere – from how we plan and design our systems to how we operate and use them. This edition of Hot Cool explores flexibility as the defining capability of tomorrow’s district heating and cooling.
From strategic heating plans that adapt to political and economic realities, to digital twins and AI that make networks smarter, to customers becoming active “flexumers” – every article shows how flexibility strengthens efficiency, resilience, and value creation.
Flexibility is no longer optional. It’s the foundation for district energy systems that can thrive in a fluctuating, renewable future.
Editorial – Why heating and cooling plans work
By Per Alex Sørensen, PlanEnergi
Without serious planning, district heating and cooling will remain stuck behind gas boilers and heat pumps. Too many cities create “heat plans” that never leave the drawer. Real planning means proving affordability, involving stakeholders, and ensuring strong political backing. Read the editorial →
The advantages of district heating
By John Tang Jensen, District Heating Specialist
Heating is often overlooked in climate policy, yet it is one of the largest energy and emission sources. District heating offers a proven path toward affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy by linking surplus heat, renewables, and CHP into one efficient system. Read the article →
From consumer to flexumer
By Lone Pie Kelstrup and Kristian Honoré, HOFOR
HOFOR is testing the “flexumer” concept, where customers voluntarily contribute flexibility to the energy system. With 20 large building owners already engaged, the project has shown up to 8 MW of voluntary flexibility, helping shape the future of demand-side management. Read the article →
When a digital twin becomes intelligent
By Bo Stig, CCO and Engineer, Neurospace
Berliner Energie und Wärme has developed a digital twin to simulate and optimize its district heating grid. Together with Neurospace, they’re now taking it further—using AI to forecast consumption and predict hydraulic limitations, unlocking a new level of efficiency. Read the article →
From passive customers to valuable assets
By Anna Marszal-Pomianowska, Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University
Smart demand management is key to decarbonising the heating sector. This article explores how demand response and flexible buildings can integrate renewables, stabilize low-temperature networks, and turn consumers into active players in daily operations. Read the article →
We hope these insights spark new ideas, collaborations, and actions. The tools are here – now it’s time to implement.
Tag Your Peers
Tag your colleagues, share it with your network, and let’s build a community dedicated to sustainable energy practices.
The HOT|COOL district energy magazine is not just a passport for staying informed; it’s an invitation to share, discuss, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Thank you for being a part of this exciting journey!