The 11th edition of the DHC+ Summer School, focused on “Energy System Integration: the role of district heating and cooling” took place between 20-25 August 2023 in Tallinn, Estonia, and gathered 36 participants from 20 different countries.

During this intensive learning week, students and young professionals expanded their network and met experienced and renowned speakers who provided them with in-depth knowledge about the District Heating and Cooling sector.

The programme featured lectures from academia and industry leaders committed to sharing their knowledge of the sector and experience gained over several years working and conducting research on district heating and cooling. Participants cooperated in group work, debated current issues affecting the sector and potential solutions while challenging themselves to consider innovative technologies, research areas and techniques to further develop the sector.

As in previous editions, participants were given the opportunity to present their research and projects they are involved in, network with their peers and with lecturers. The programme also included a visit to the Estonian Open Air Museum and Tallin’s Old Town, nice welcome and farewell dinners. This year two technical site visits were organised: the Mustamäe biomass-fired combined heat and power plant, operated by Utilitas, and the Ülemiste district cooling station and the Sepise 7 cooling substation.

The REWARDHeat Serious Game, which proved extremely popular at the DHC+ Summer School in 2022, was reintroduced for this edition. The game allows players to explore the interdependencies between technical, economic, ecological and socio-political aspects involved in a transition to a more sustainable model of district heating.

We would also like to thank our host organisation, TalTech, our sponsors, Energex, Enerhack, Gren, Kamstrup and Utilitas, and our supporters, the Estonian Association of Thermal Engineers and the City of Tallinn. We are thankful to all the participants, lecturers and local partners who contributed to another successful DHC+ Summer School!

11th international DHC+ summer school in Tallinn