Modeling low temperature district heating networks for the utilization of local energy potentials

In this paper a modeling approach for the simulation of a low temperature district heating network with seasonal heat storage, collectors and buildings is presented. The approach combines the strengths of the simulation environments Dymola and TRNSYS through the tool “Building Controls Virtual Testbed” to a simulation framework. It is capable of simulating alternating flow conditions within a detailed pipe network along with the heat demand and supply of network-connected buildings and solar collectors. An ecological model settlement in Munich serves as case study for the framework.