DHC SwEEtch

The DHC SwEEtch project is dedicated to providing essential technical support to operators of existing District Heating and Cooling Networks (DHCN). Our goal is to help these operators develop comprehensive decarbonization roadmaps by 2050, along with investment plans that align with the ambitious targets set forth in local energy transition plans, including the revised Energy Efficiency Directive.

Our Approach: The 4-Link Support Chain

We’ve developed a structured “4-link support chain” that guides DHCN operators through the critical steps needed for effective retrofitting, modernization, fuel switching, and system integration. Each link in our chain represents a key phase:

• LINK #1: Mapping
• LINK #2: Modelling
• LINK #3: Assessing
• LINK #4: Generating Investment Plans

Each of these links comes with a tailored set of services powered by the expertise and sophisticated tools provided by our DHC SwEEtch Consortium specialists, which include renowned organizations like IESRD, R2M, RINA-C, EURAC, EIHP, and KAPE.

Real-World Impact: Case Studies

We’re deploying our integrated tool chain across ten real-world case studies to develop detailed investment plans. Understanding that geographical, political, and socio-economic conditions vary across Europe, our approach leverages the local expertise of our Consortium Partners in Italy, Croatia, and Poland.

We have already selected five pioneering case studies linked to four committed DHCN operators. Additionally, we will identify five replicator case studies within the first 15 months of the project by issuing an open call to attract more DHCN operators eager to participate.

Join the Community

To amplify our project’s impact, we’re establishing a vibrant community of DHC SwEEtch Followers across Europe. Comprising over 80 members—including DHCN operators, local authorities, and energy stakeholders—this community will engage in training and dissemination activities aimed at maximizing sustainability and replicability.