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Revolutionising District Heating: Energikontor Norr’s New EU Project

Discover how North Sweden is driving innovation in sustainable district heating through a groundbreaking EU-funded project.

Illustration : Energikontor Norr

Energikontor Norr is initiating a new project to develop Norrbotten county into a European knowledge centre for district heating. The project, titled Advancing district heating and cooling solutions for efficient waste heat utilisation (DISCO), is funded by Region Norrbotten and Interreg Europe.

Addressing Rising Costs and Sustainability

The rising cost of fuel has driven up district heating prices, making the need for innovative solutions more pressing. The DISCO project aims to capitalise on untapped residual energy sources that can be integrated into district heating systems. These efforts will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase sustainability in the region.

Collaboration for Regional Development

Within the project, a regional stakeholder group will be established, bringing together energy companies, district heating providers, and other key players. This group will focus on opportunities such as joint procurement, connecting new neighbourhoods, system upgrades, and new technologies, such as low-temperature systems. The project will also promote knowledge exchange on an interregional level to strengthen the region’s competitiveness and expertise in district heating

Local Involvement and Perspectives

Pajala Municipality’s Role

Pajala Municipality is an active participant, alongside Region Norrbotten and district heating stakeholders. Birgitta Rantatalo, Pajala’s Municipal Mayor, stated:

“It’s great that our district heating company is involved in both regional and international efforts to improve district heating. With fuel prices rising and expected to keep increasing, working together is essential to address this challenge.”

Regional Developments Goals

Janus Brandin, Regional Development Director, Department of Regional Development, Region Norrbotten, emphasise:

“In Norrbotten, we must be proactive in developing the use of district heating, as energy is a valuable resource that we need to use in the best possible way. If we can work through interregional cooperation to find solutions for our citizens, it is a step in the right direction,”

Building on Existing Expertise

Norrbotten’s district heating systems date back to the 1980s, offering a strong foundation for innovation. Isabella Katsimenis, Senior International Project Developer at Energikontor Norr noted:

“Norrbotten’s stakeholders have a good knowledge of district heating. Through this project, we aim to showcase this expertise to develop the district heating of the future.”