ProsNet - A Modelica library for prosumer-based heat networks: Description and validation

Abstract

Prosumer-based heat networks are a new concept in district heating systems that uses the ability of prosumers to operate as either producers or consumers. This type of networks allows for utilizing distributed heat generation and renewable energy sources. A broad range of individual operating modes, heat generation technologies, and topologies determine complex thermo-hydraulic behavior of such networks. Simulations help gain insights into their properties. In this paper, a Modelica library ProsNet is presented for such simulations. It is designed to set up models of prosumer-based heat networks to investigate their dynamic and steady-state performance in a user-friendly way. Important models of the library are described in more detail. Finally, a successful validation of the developed components was performed by comparing simulation results with another software for modeling bidirectional heat networks in steady-state.