Summary:
In this lecture we will start with the classification of district energy systems from the from the 1st to the 4th generation and introduce the concept of 5th generation low exergy district heating and cooling network (5GDHC). Different network topologies will be analyzed and software tools that support the optimization of the network design and layout will be presented. The modelling of DHC networks is inherently difficult as it includes fluid dynamics in their underlying equations, with thermal storage and loads calculation and estimation playing an important role. A review of software tools that assist in the modelling, calibration and optimization problems of the networks is also provided, additional to the topology and layout tool mentioned above.

References:
# https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2022.125060
# https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2017.06.109
# https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egyr.2021.09.034
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# https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2022.124777
# https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2020.110577