The goal of the project “Intelligent Decision-Making Models for Anergies Networks for the Retrofit of Existing Neighborhoods” (AnergIQ) is to build knowledge and lay the groundwork for an innovation project aimed at developing and demonstrating anergies networks in existing neighborhoods in Lower Austria.
Anergy Networks: Designing Decarbonization Efficiently and Integrally
For densely built-up neighborhoods and town centers, especially those without sufficient access to district heating, the decarbonization of the heat supply poses a particular challenge. Anergic networks offer an effective solution here by distributing heat at low temperatures (approx. 5 °C to 25 °C) in an uninsulated network with various heat sources and heat consumers—in the summer, cooling can also be provided through this network. Furthermore, if geothermal probes are integrated into the network, waste heat can be stored seasonally, enabling the efficient local use of energy. Connected network participants use high-efficiency decentralized heat pumps for this purpose, which can be used for both heating and cooling, thereby eliminating the need for more complex, separate systems.
The Roadmap
To better understand the feasibility of anergy networks, particularly when retrofitting existing neighborhoods, and to develop intelligent decision-making models, the AnergIQ project is conducting detailed analyses of two specific study areas and collecting relevant data. In addition to detailed modeling of these two areas, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is also involved in assessing feasibility and conducting economic feasibility analyses.
Based on these results, a transferable “blueprint” will be created and a catalog of criteria for evaluating such projects will be developed. The goal is to use the experience gained to make future assessments quickly and in a standardized manner.
What are anergy networks?
Anergic networks are defined as bidirectional low-temperature networks capable of providing heat, hot water, and cooling through the use of heat pumps. They enable the utilization of renewable energy potentials and the integration of seasonal energy storage systems. Anergic networks are often also referred to by terms such as bidirectional low-temperature heating networks, cold heating or local heating networks, LowEx (low exergy) heating networks, 5GDHC (“Heating Networks 5.0”), and Thermal Source Networks (TSN).
Project Objectives
The AnergIQ project has three main objectives:
- The development of a concrete implementation concept for a demonstrator: an anergy network in an existing neighborhood.
- The creation of a criteria catalog, as well as a techno-economic model to serve as a decision-making aid for municipalities and utility companies at the feasibility level, in order to identify suitable locations for anergy networks. Of particular relevance here is the consideration of technical, legal, and economic success factors and framework conditions.
- The preparation of a concrete R&D project in which an anergy network is implemented in existing buildings.
