OPEC Gdynia faced two significant challenges: a commitment to reduce Gdynia’s carbon footprint by 43% by 2030, and concerns over energy prices and supply stability due to geopolitical factors.

To address these issues, the company sought ways to modernize and optimize their district heating network, aiming to reduce heat loss and leakage, enhance network capacity and efficiency, and incorporate more cost-effective and sustainable energy sources.

Grundfos iGRID makes it possible to divide district heating grids into smaller low temperature zones with similar building characteristics, which leads to a differentiated setup based on the actual building demands. This change means that it is no longer the one building with the highest temperature demand that determines how the entire grid should be operated.

To reduce the heat loss in the grid as much as possible, the temperatures are optimised based on real-time data from iGRID measure points that are placed close to the consumers. The data is used for the iGRID Temperature Zone that utilises a mixing loop and an iGRID Temperature Optimiser to lower the supply temperature to meet exactly the required level – nothing more and nothing less.

In collaboration with Grundfos, OPEC Gdynia implemented an iGRID Temperature Zone -a smart mixing loop system- within a subsection of the district heating network. This solution includes two skids equipped with controllers, pumps, and sensors installed in the local substation.

The iGRID system intelligently monitors and adjusts pressure and temperature based on real-time demand, ensuring optimal performance. It also integrates with OPEC’s SCADA system, providing comprehensive monitoring capabilities across the wider network.

The implementation of the iGRID Temperature Zone has led to measurable energy savings, which can reduce heating costs for end-users and free up resources for further efficiency projects. Additionally, the project supports Gdynia’s climate goals by effectively reducing carbon dioxide emissions and utilizing environmentally friendly heat energy sources. This collaboration between OPEC, Grundfos, and the Gdynia municipal authorities exemplifies how modern technologies can enhance service quality for residents while promoting environmental sustainability.