Public defence in Mechanical Engineering, M.Sc. Nima Javanshir

District heating systems play a crucial role in meeting the heating demand in Finland, particularly in urban environments. Traditionally, these systems have relied heavily on fossil fuels, which produce greenhouse gas emissions. The urgent need to decarbonize the heating sector is essential to mitigate climate change and meet Finland's carbon-neutrality goals by 2035.

In this thesis, various strategies for decarbonizing district heating systems in Finland are explored, focusing on electrification and the integration of renewable energy sources. The electrified district heating systems are investigated from economic, environmental, and security of heat supply perspectives during different energy market situations, especially the 2022 EU energy crisis, which resulted in record-high natural gas and electricity prices. The research includes several case studies from different Finnish cities, each with unique energy demands and infrastructure. This thesis shows that integrating wind power with power-to-heat technologies such as heat pumps and electric boilers can significantly reduce the carbon dioxide emissions of district heating systems. By utilizing renewable electricity, these systems can provide a sustainable and economically viable alternative to fossil fuels. 

The findings demonstrate that: 

• Especially together with combined heat and power production, electrified district heating technologies can operate efficiently and cost-effectively even during periods of high energy market prices.
• Long-term bilateral contracts between district heating operators and wind power producers can enhance economic viability, providing mutual benefits.
• Participation in electricity and balancing markets offers additional revenue streams for district heating operators, making the transition to low-carbon systems more financially viable.

Doctoral Student: Nima Javanshir

Opponent: Prof. Ieva Pakere. Riga Technical University, Latvia

Custos: Prof. Sanna Syri, Aalto University School of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering

The public defense will be organized in Lecture Hall E, Otakaari 1.

The thesis is publicly displayed 10 days prior to the defense in the publication archive Aaltodoc of Aalto University. 

Contact information of doctoral student:

Doctoral theses in the School of Engineering: https://aaltodoc.aalto.fi/handle/123456789/49