Subsidized feasibility studies and transformation plans for heating networks with future viability

Do you operate a heating network or are you planning to build a new one? Then you are facing far-reaching changes in heat supply. Legal requirements, rising energy prices, and the necessary switch to renewable energies are significantly increasing the demands on planning reliability and economic efficiency. Typical challenges for local energy suppliers, industrial companies, heating network operators, and municipal stakeholders are:

• compliance with the requirements of the Heat Planning Act (WPG) and the Building Energy Act (GEG)
• creating decarbonization roadmaps for expanding heating networks
• high investment requirements coupled with pressure to make optimal use of subsidies
• uncertainty in selecting suitable technologies, expansion steps, and timelines
• need for reliable decision-making bases for managing directors, committees, and supervisory boards

We support you in dealing with these challenges – with well-founded feasibility studies and transformation plans for new and existing heating networks. Our studies are BAFA-compliant (BEW Module 1) and form the basis for applying for investment subsidies (BEW Module 2).

For existing networks, we develop practical transformation plans that realistically map regulatory target paths (e.g., 30/80/100% renewable energies by 2030/2040/2045) and evaluate them economically.

For new heating networks to be built, we usually support you in two stages: We conduct both a preliminary study to define network areas and potential, as well as a complete BAFA-compliant feasibility study.

In both cases, we combine scientific neutrality with application-oriented planning. With the help of dynamic simulations, mathematical optimization, and scenario and sensitivity analyses, we create a reliable basis for decision-making – technology-neutral and without conflicts of interest.

Working with us is structured, flexible, and tailored to your specific situation. We usually work on a direct commission basis and are happy to cooperate with planning or implementation partners who are already involved. The project process generally consists of four phases:

1. Kick-off and data collection
   joint project launch, definition of objectives, structured data query, and project board for transparency
2. Analysis of existing conditions and potential
   evaluation of consumption data, grid infrastructure, and renewable and waste heat potential – including via interactive maps
3. Concept development and comparison of options
   development and evaluation of generation, storage, and grid options using simulation and optimization, KPI-based
4. Eligibility for funding and roadmap
   preparation of BEW-compliant feasibility study or transformation plan, including measures, investment, and schedule