Impact of thermal load reduction on fuel consumption and energy production: A Case study for the Chisinau district heating system

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of thermal load reduction in centralized district heating plants and its impact on natural gas consumption and energy generation efficiency. The study is based on operational data from two major cogeneration plants in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova: CHP Source 1 and CHP Source 2, for cold and warm periods of the year. Simulated scenarios considered stepwise reductions in thermal load from 100% to 60-65 %, in order to determine the optimal operating ranges and limits beyond which further load reduction leads to disproportionate fuel consumption or loss of efficiency. The article also discusses the implications of future residential connections to the district heating system. In addition, several scenarios are considered as part of a broader strategy, which assumes that the residential buildings will be gradually insulated. These scenarios aim to assess how improved building envelope performance will impact long-term heat demand profiles, gas consumption and overall system efficiency. The results support the need for flexible operating strategies and improved control systems.