A total energy approach to integrated community infrastructure design

A combined gas, district heating and electricity distribution network design model was developed. The model determined cost optimal infrastructure component specifications, financial performance and carbon emissions. Consumers were grouped into clusters of similar load profile. Distribution network specifications were estimated using peak load flow conditions. Community combined heat and power units and heat only boiler units were optimised against the district heat network load profile. The model is demonstrated using an example case study based on a real UK new build community development.