Thermal districts are a proposal aimed at providing sustainable climate control for spaces as large as neighborhoods or cities. These districts consist of thermal energy plants that supply chilled water or steam to urban spaces such as shopping centers, residential areas, or public buildings. One of the many advantages they offer is the way they are powered, as these plants can utilize various energy sources such as biomass, geothermal energy, solar power, or even a combination of different technologies, making it an environmentally friendly solution.
The operation of a thermal district involves a net of pipes that transport hot or cold water to connected buildings. In the case of heating, hot water circulates to provide warmth, while in cooling, cold water is used to cool spaces.
It is worth highlighting that this type of system offers energy efficiency by centralizing the production of heat or cold, allowing for better resource utilization and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the benefits are not limited to environmental aspects, as having a centralized system means energy consumption does not depend on each individual user, which helps reduce overall energy use. Additionally, it is estimated that climate control through this system is 40% more efficient compared to independent equipment located in each building or space.
In Colombia, one of the cities embracing sustainable climate control is Cartagena, through Serena del Mar. In The Dreamed City, the Thermal District provides energy to the Serena del Mar Hospital, as well as to residential projects like Cavana, Altana, and Castelo, enabling a reduction in energy consumption by 8% to 10%, and fulfilling the goal of providing a high-quality experience for its residents and visitors.
If you want to learn more about our Thermal District, visit us in Northern Cartagena, at KM 8 Vía al Mar.
We look forward to seeing you!
References:
- https://www.celsia.com/es/blog-celsia/que-es-un-distrito-termico-y-como-ayuda-a-la-sostenibilidad-en-construcciones/
- https://www.acrlatinoamerica.com/202007019379/articulos/aire-acondicionado-y-ventilacion/distritos-termicos-concepto-y-beneficios.html
- https://www.distritoenergetico.com/que-son-los-distritos-termicos-y-para-que-sirven/
- https://naturgas.com.co/distritos-termicos-una-apuesta-clave-para-combatir-el-cambio-climatico