Nyhed
Student Advises Polish Heating Plant on Transition to 100% Renewable Energy by 2030
Nyhed
Student Advises Polish Heating Plant on Transition to 100% Renewable Energy by 2030
By Susanne Togeby, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photo: Colourbox
The EU is set to phase out coal mines by 2030 and aims to reduce dependence on energy imports from non-EU countries. As a result, heating plants across the EU can expect increased taxes on the use of fossil fuels. This presents a significant challenge for Poland and several other countries that heavily rely on fossil fuels for district heating production.
I have developed a scenario that shows 100% renewable heat production is possible.
But the challenge is not impossible. This is demonstrated by calculations carried out by Amalie Charlotte Hansen as part of her studies in Sustainable Energy Planning and Management at Aalborg University. Her analysis, conducted in collaboration with the Polish heating plant MPEC in Ostróda, documents that it is economically feasible for the plant to transition its heat production to 100% renewable energy. Amalie has investigated the untapped energy potentials in Ostróda, Poland, and how the heating plant MPEC can utilize them. She explains:
"I have developed a scenario that shows 100% renewable heat production is possible. From a societal perspective, it is crucial that MPEC Ostróda makes this transition. It’s about protecting the local environment while ensuring affordable heating for the community. Moreover, MPEC is the first to attempt a 100% renewable heating transition in Poland, and they will likely inspire others to follow the same path."
District Heating Plants Play a Key Role in the Transition to Renewable Energy
As part of her internship at the consulting engineering company Artelia, Amalie collaborated with the district heating plant MPEC. During her internship, she maintained close dialogue with the employees at MPEC, explains her supervisor at Aalborg University, Anders N. Andersen:
"This dialogue has been crucial in ensuring that MPEC adapts its planning to the results of her analyses. It has provided them with a valuable understanding of how large heat storage systems contribute to essential flexibility, allowing them to take advantage of opportunities in electricity markets."
Amalie emphasizes that district heating plants play a vital role in Poland’s transition to renewable energy due to the widespread use of district heating. By shifting the district heating sector to renewable energy sources, the overall environmental footprint is reduced, bringing Poland one step closer to achieving the EU’s climate goals.
Translated by Emma Holtegaard Hansen
About the Study
Amalie Charlotte Hansen's analysis consists of:
- A scenario analysis examining the capacity of different technologies and assessing which investments make economic sense.
- An analysis of potential barriers to the development of renewable energy in Poland. This includes Poland’s historical and cultural ties to coal, as well as other challenges such as economic constraints and a lack of public awareness.
In addition to working with MPEC, Amalie Charlotte Hansen has also collaborated with DBDH (Danish District Heating and Cooling Export Organization) and VEKS (Vestegnens Kraftvarmeselskab) during her internship at the consulting engineering company Artelia.
Sustainable Energy Planning and Management
Amalie Charlotte Hansen is studying Sustainable Energy Planning and Management. The program focuses on society’s energy needs, sustainability, environmental impact, and economic considerations.