Sector coupling: Danfoss' smart energy videocast
Danfoss realised three videos introducing the smart side of the energy system using sector coupling to connect the different energy sectors. They provide two specific cases about Sonderborg and Copenhagen on how small- and large-scale district heating systems play an integral part of sector coupling.
Basic of sector coupling and the role district energy systems play
The first video is the introduction of the smart side of the energy system and how the setup can support decarbonizing the energy supply and fight against climate change. They share insights about the basic of sector coupling and the role district energy systems play. Sector coupling is about connecting the different energy sectors together to realise a renewable based and energy efficient energy system in a cost-optimal way. By creating the energy system such that all elements can interact with each other it is possible to both minimise the instantaneous energy input requirements and to take advantage of, and extend, attributes of one sector to the others. The key benefit district energy networks reap from sector coupling is the possibility to use local waste heat sources as well as the possibility to utilise renewable power at periods of low-cost and when it does not put strain on the power system. This can significantly increase the cost competitiveness of the district energy systems.
Watch the video here.
How the Copenhagen District Heating System supports and benefits from sector coupling
The second video is about how the Copenhagen District Heating System supports and benefits from sector coupling and effectively decarbonises the heat supply. Sector coupling and integration are terms for connecting and integrating various actors in the energy system to take advantages of synergies. The most known and applied sector coupling is cogeneration of heat and power. The Copenhagen energy systems consist of waste incinerations, wastewater treatment plants, CPH plants, heat pumps, electric boilers, thermal energy storages, and peak and reserve boilers. This coupling of the heating, cooling and the power sector together unlocks large opportunities to take advantage of synergies between these sectors. With the sector coupling and multi-source operation, Copenhagen district heating can continuously switch between fuels to fulfill its goals.
Watch the video here.
How the Sønderborg District Heating System supports and benefits from sector coupling
The third video explains how the Sønderborg District Heating System supports and benefits from sector coupling, and at the same time help decarbonize Sønderborg municipality. The climate target of the city is to be CO2 neutral by 2029, including the transport, industry, residential and commercial sectors. Further, realising the target in a cost-efficient manner for the resident. The strategy to reach the target is to focus on energy efficiency and diverse heat sources in the district heating system. The Sønderborg city district heating system is a great example of how even a small-scale DH system can take advantage of multiple heat sources and synergies with sector coupling.
Watch the video here.
