Balancing energy efficiency with the challenges of electrifying district heating

District heating and cooling (DHC) is one of the most efficient, sustainable, and future-ready ways to produce and distribute energy.

 

As the district heating sector moves toward a fossil-free future, electrification is accelerating through the adoption of sustainable technologies like large-scale heat pumps. As we electrify in not only heating, but also in transportation, buildings, and industry, the pressure on the electrical grid is growing fast. That’s where our energy efficient motors and Ultra Low Harmonic drives come in. Engineered to minimize grid disturbance and optimize energy efficiency, they’re the ideal solution to support a smooth, reliable, and scalable transition to fully electric district heating.

 

Our portfolio also includes SCADA with a dedicated district energy library, variable speed drives, communication and metering solutions, plus seamless integration with third-party systems like ERP and optimization tools. We also partner with trusted manufacturers to supply and integrate all key mechanical components, heat exchangers, pumps, chillers, thermal storage, and more.

 

With advanced control algorithms, intelligent pump scheduling, and deep experience in waste heat, geothermal, solar, and Power-to-X, ABB helps your network run at peak performance, cutting emissions, lowering costs, and increasing system lifespan. Whether you're operating a large metropolitan grid or a local municipal system, ABB is your partner for smarter, cleaner, more efficient district energy.

Broager’s CO2 neutral district heating: Harnessing solar and geothermal energy, with ABB technology

In Denmark, in the southern Jutland town of Broager, the local district heating plant shows the way towards a more sustainable future. Here, CO2-neutral district heating is produced by, among other things, utilizing the cool local groundwater as a heat source.

Key benefits

One solution from start to finish

From power analysis and control to mechanical integration and commissioning, you get everything you need for efficient district energy in one coordinated package, reducing risk, cost, and complexity.

Smarter systems, lower energy use

Advanced automation, SCADA with built-in district energy functions, and variable speed drives give you full visibility and control, so your system runs only when and where it needs to.

Sustainable by design

Whether you use waste heat, solar, geothermal, or Power-to-X, your network is ready. The system adapts to your energy sources, so you can cut emissions without compromising performance.

Reliable performance

High-efficiency switchgear, transformers, drives, and protection systems ensure safe, stable, and energy-efficient operation across every part of your plant.

Complete mechanical solution

Heat exchangers, pumps, valves, chillers — everything fits. Trusted mechanical equipment is seamlessly integrated for smooth, reliable operation from day one.

Scalable for any network

From city-wide grids to small municipal systems, your network gets exactly what it needs. Flexible design and a modular approach keep operations efficient, cost-effective, and easy to expand.

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