District heating project stages

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Understand the stages of a district heating project and download resources to support project sponsors through the feasibility study process.

Feasibility stages

Project sponsors embarking on district heating projects will follow a structured approach of 7 key stages. Each stage is designed to ensure thorough planning and execution.

The process begins with an assessment of potential areas for heat distribution through heat mapping and strategic energy master planning. Pre-feasibility includes demand assessment, identification of key anchor loads, and exploration of heat supply options.

Explore our interactive map to view the identified candidate areas for district heating.

Read our report on how we’ve identified district heating candidate areas.

The findings from pre-feasibility are then validated. This stage involves temperature and heat demand analyses as well as financial and strategic risk assessments.

Learn more about what to expect from the feasibility process.

This stage ensures alignment with infrastructure guidelines and public spending codes.

At this point, the project business model is refined and a detailed procurement strategy is outlined. Key stakeholder contracts are secured and design requirements are established in line with compliance.

Ahead of construction, the procurement strategy is implemented and all contracts are finalised.

Then, the infrastructure is built and the district heating system is commissioned.

This phase involves maintaining the district heating system, planning for expansion and managing tasks such as metering, billing and customer service.

Understanding these phases will prepare you for the detailed planning required to successfully implement a district heating scheme.

Stage 2, feasibility, is a big step in any district heating project journey.

Conduct a feasibility study

Once you have completed the pre-feasibility steps, you can carry out a comprehensive feasibility study to determine whether district heating is possible. This crucial step evaluates the viability, cost, and impact of district heating, ensuring that your project is both technically sound and economically feasible.

A feasibility study must cover a series of areas:

Demand assessment

Demand assessment is an evaluation of the heat demand within the proposed district heating network. This covers building demand analysis, peak heat demands and assesses the feasibility of connections based on operating temperatures and building characteristics​.

Assessment of energy supply options

This assessment requires you to form a shortlist of the most feasible energy supply options for further detailed analysis​.

Heat distribution systems

This section focuses on the design and assessment of the pipe network and heating plants. It includes route selection, sizing and the feasibility of connecting buildings to the network​.

Multi-criteria analysis of shortlisted options

A weighted multi-criteria analysis is required to evaluate district heating options against several criteria. This includes financial viability, operational efficiency and environmental impact.

Detailed energy supply options assessment

A deeper analysis of the shortlisted energy supply options is then needed to examine multiple scenarios and alternative options to the district heating proposal.​

Recommendations

The final section summarises the feasibility study, offering conclusions about the technical viability, financial analysis, and environmental benefits. It also provides clear recommendations and outlines next steps for project implementation​

Write a feasibility study report

When conducting a district heating feasibility study, you will need to create a report to document your findings.

Our feasibility report template guides you through the process, providing detailed instructions and examples so you can document your findings clearly and efficiently.

This document will detail your analysis, conclusions, and recommendations, providing a clear pathway for project stakeholders and decision-makers.

Use our provided template and follow the accompanying how-to guidance document to ensure your report is clear and comprehensive.

Once you have completed your feasibility report, email us at [email protected] to discuss how we can provide further guidance and financial support.

Supports for renewable heating systems

Financial assistance for businesses transitioning to alternative heating solutions such as biomass heating, biogas boilers, commercial heat pumps or district heating.

Access support scheme

Talk to us about your district heating plans

Contact us to learn about the SEAI grants available and the practical support we can provide for your district heating project.

Email: [email protected]