District heating systems

District heating systems provide centralized heat to multiple buildings from a single location, typically a power plant or dedicated heating plant. This facility generates heat—often using waste heat, biomass, or other fuels—and pipes distribute hot water or steam through an underground network to homes, offices, and other buildings. These buildings then use the hot water or steam for space heating and sometimes hot water supply. District heating improves energy efficiency, reduces overall emissions, and simplifies maintenance, making it an effective way to supply heat to large urban areas sustainably and reliably.