Methodology
The HeatMineDH Explorer supports the identification and assessment of low-grade heat sources that could be integrated into district heating networks. It visualizes heat potential from different source types, including industrial waste heat, urban heat sources, wastewater heat, geothermal energy and solar thermal energy.
The sub-sections of "Methodology" section outline the methodology applied for the assessment of low-grade heat potentials. It is important to note that the applied approach is intended for a high-level screening based on simplified and standardized criteria, rather than detailed engineering simulations. The objective is to ensure comparability across regions and identify areas of interest for further in-depth analysis in the following project work packages. Nevertheless, the methodology incorporates clearly defined steps for data collection, validation, and quality assurance. Data sources, collection procedures, and validation methods are described in detail in separate sub-pages to provide transparency and traceability of the applied approach. The process for updating geospatial outputs (maps) and verifying data inputs is also documented to ensure consistency and reliability in the ongoing development of the dataset.
For more details on methodology for each type visit the sub-sections:
- Industrial Waste Heat Potential
For information on methodology for economic evaluation, check Economic Evaluation Methodology.
Data Integration
The data used in HeatMineDH Explorer is stored in EnergieAtlas, developed by AIT, interactive database for visualizing and accessing comprehensive energy-related information across Austria and beyond. Serving as a central platform, it maps diverse energy resources, including solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal potentials, alongside critical energy infrastructure, thereby empowering researchers, planners, and policymakers with spatial data for informed decision-making. The Explorer connects to this database, reading the data and the metadata information. Layer added to the HeatmineDH Explorer are available in the EnergieAtlas "HeatMineDH project": EA Dashboard
The methodology uses automatic GIS-based approaches and literature data to convert open datasets, such as building areas and OpenStreetMap tags, into estimates of available heat. For industrial sectors, the tool applies correlation and calculation factors based on data such as floor space and revenue, while for unconventional urban sources, such as supermarket refrigeration and data centres, a semi-automatic QGIS-based method is used. Users and companies can also add their own heat-source information to improve and enrich the dataset.