Nowadays, electricity is becoming a scarce resource, which means that it should primarily be used where it is absolutely necessary.

Much of the energy needs of buildings can be met at relatively low temperatures, and in many cases, water may be a suitable medium for distributing heat.

A key concept in the context of thermal energy supply is “energy flexibility”, by which we mean the possibility of using, and being able to choose from, various sources of energy.

This ability is important both for security of supply and as a way of achieving the lowest possible operating costs. Water-borne systems are a highly effective means of increasing energy flexibility.

At SINTEF, we have a great deal of expertise in heat and energy planning - covering every aspect from heat pumps to combined heat and power and remote refrigeration. We also know a great deal about economising on energy in general and about how several different types of energy bearers can be integrated.