Tool to help the implementation of Thermal Energy from Drinking Water (TED)

The transition to the sustainable heating of buildings requires the use of sustainable heat sources. Thermal Energy from Drinking Water (TED) constitutes one of these heat sources. On the basis of the current state of science, KWR researchers have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on aquathermia and their answers in the form of a Q&A, and included links to relevant publications. This Aquathermia Q&A is available (in Dutch) on the KWR website.

Increased interest in TED

Andreas Moerman, one of the compilers of the Q&A: ‘There are currently about twelve TED installations in the Netherlands. Most TED systems provide either a cooling capacity or a heating capacity, though some do both. The heat or cold capacity is usually supplied to non-residential buildings (offices, schools, etc.), but sometimes also to households. TED is attracting increased interest because regions, municipalities and private parties are looking for sustainable sources of heat. In this context, they see the drinking water utilities as holders of renewable heat sources. This calls for a policy response on the part of the drinking water sector, in the form for instance of a defined corporate approach and of an information office to respond to questions.’

Q&A as an aid for FAQs

‘Our Q&A helps drinking water utilities, and the parties to whom they can supply aquathermia, by presenting quick and ready answers to FAQs,’ says Moerman. The Q&A addresses all sorts of technical and non-technical questions about TED application, while indicating where knowledge gaps still exist.

The Aquathermia Q&A is available (in Dutch) on the KWR website.

Heat exchanger (left) and heat pump (right) of the oldest TED installation in the Netherlands, which is owned by the Thermo Bello energy corporation in Culemborg, where heat is extracted from a Vitens clean water reservoir.