Economic Analysis of District Thermal Network and Air-Source Heat Pump Systems

On behalf of NRDC, Synapse developed an Excel-based model that allows users to compare the economics of air source heat pumps and district thermal networks for residential and commercial buildings in five climate zones (Zones 3 to 7) and for three neighborhood configurations (i.e., low-density, residential, medium-density residential and medium-density mixed use). The model calculates annual energy consumption for heating and cooling, HVAC capacities, and annual and lifetime system costs. Costs include equipment and installation, necessary utility upgrades, and operating costs for both system types.