District Heating Transmission Networks in Helsinki
Helsinki supports one of the most complex and elaborate heat transmission networks in the whole of Western Europe.
Since it is responsible for delivering heat to most of the buildings and residential houses it is very efficient and is regulated at all times to ensure that no problems arise.
The heat is transmitted from power plants and heating plants in the form of hot water, usually about 75-120 degrees Celsius, using underground facilities.
These facilities consist of underground tunnels built in compliance with city standards which run to all the areas serviced in the locality.
They are fitted with DH pipeline systems which are thickly insulated to ensure the least amount of energy loss (5%).
The new pipeline system is much more practical and efficient since it is made of more flexible material and thus forms links easily and are also made of a long-lasting plastic which reduces chronic constructional work, thereby reducing replacement costs thus leading to considerable savings.
The water temperature is regulated between 60-85 degrees Celsius and the room temperatures are maintained at a comfortable 20-22 degrees Celsius.
This is controlled at the "Nerve Center" of the DH system, a computerized control room that monitors generation and transmission of energy.
It raises both the economy and efficiency of the DH systems, which has a heat output of about 300MW.
The annual construction of district heating networks has increased dramatically over the years since the 1950's due to the availability of technological advancements in companies such as KWH Tech and SERMET OY.
These networks cover a distance of 7,500 km in Helsinki, which would be larger due to the addition of the pipelines under construction at the present moment.
The DH networks have the capability of providing heat and electricity to any new consumers due to its simple construction and the accessibility of the network system.
The power plants that are involved in the distribution of heat are well situated to provide uniform services to the city of Helsinki.