prCEN/TS 18458

System optimization for climate-positive impact in low‑temperature district heating and cooling systems

Scope

8. Scope of the proposed work item (max 4000 characters)

This document provides information for the planning, design, optimization and implementation of low‑temperature district heating and cooling systems. It describes methods for determining suitable system temperature levels and for selecting an appropriate low‑temperature configuration based on local boundary conditions, including available heat sources, building stock characteristics, network topology, and operational requirements.

This document covers:
 Integration of decentralized and low‑temperature heat sources;
 Local temperature adaptation in distribution network subsections;
 Criteria for selecting and dimensioning low‑temperature solutions;
 System‑level impacts on energy efficiency, distribution losses and pumping energy;
 Interaction between existing and newly built building stock and their substations;
 Considerations for materials, pipe technology and installation practices enabled by reduced temperatures;
 Principles to ensure maintained or improved system capacity, reliability and production economics.

The document applies to both newly constructed low‑temperature networks and low‑temperature subsections within existing district heating and cooling systems. It does not cover detailed product specifications for individual components