As district heating networks continue to evolve in response to climate goals, utility companies must adopt innovative tools to plan, optimize, and manage their operations. We spoke with Simon Rime, Project Engineer at Groupe E, a Swiss energy company, to gain a firsthand perspective on how advanced hydraulic modeling can support these efforts. Simon shared his experiences using Fluidit Heat, detailing how the software has streamlined workflows, solved unique challenges, and contributed to advancing Switzerland’s energy transition.
About Groupe E
Groupe E has a long-standing reputation as a leader in energy production and distribution in Switzerland. While the company is well-known for its role in electricity, it manages and develops around sixty district heating networks. Beyond its core services, Groupe E offers expertise in renewable energy solutions, energy efficiency projects, electric mobility, and engineering services.
Simon, who works on the design and development of new district heating networks and heat power plants, plays a crucial role in the company’s efforts to modernize infrastructure and optimize resource use.
“The best part of working at Groupe E,” Simon shared, “is the opportunity to contribute to numerous large-scale projects that drive the energy transition while enjoying flexibility and a great working atmosphere.”
Collaboration with Fluidit
When Groupe E began the search for a hydraulic modeling software, they aimed to find a tool that could handle the complexity of district heating networks while offering flexibility and user-friendly features. After evaluating several options, Fluidit Heat stood out.
“We initially analyzed various simulation software available on the market and then contacted different vendors. This allowed us to test several demo versions. Ultimately, we chose Fluidit.”
What made Fluidit Heat the right choice? According to Simon, its ability to integrate GIS data, extensive customization options, and efficient scenario analysis capabilities made it a perfect fit for the company’s needs.
One of Fluidit Heat’s standout features is its high level of customization. This capability has been crucial for Simon and his team when working with stakeholders who may not be familiar with the technical details of district heating.
“I really appreciate the ability to extensively customize the software, both graphically and technically. These options allow for outputs tailored to different situations and make it easier to communicate effectively with people who may not be from the field.”
Dynamic simulations, realistic modeling of heat plant behavior, and customizable reports have all enhanced how Groupe E shares its findings and collaborates with partners.
In addition to the software’s capabilities, Groupe E has found Fluidit’s customer support team to be a reliable partner.
“Overall, the support and contacts we have at Fluidit are responsive, and solutions are usually found quickly,” Simon noted. “For more complex cases, new solutions are often integrated into future versions of the software, as it is constantly evolving.”
The CAD Fribourg project
One of the most ambitious projects where Fluidit Heat has been instrumental is the CAD Fribourg initiative. This large-scale effort seeks to connect multiple historical networks in the Fribourg agglomeration, expand existing infrastructure, and prioritize renewable energy sources.
“Ultimately, the network is expected to consist of just under twenty heat power plants and several large-scale accumulators,” Simon explained. “Using Fluidit has allowed us to verify the project’s technical feasibility and define the technical specifications for the plants, networks, and substations.”
The project also involves managing significant elevation differences, up to 190 meters, which present unique hydraulic challenges. Fluidit Heat proved invaluable in addressing these issues.
“Fluidit enabled us to identify the pressures at different locations within the network. This allowed us to develop technical solutions to address these challenges and define equipment specifications based on their location,” Simon said.
Success outcome and results
For Groupe E, the benefits of Fluidit Heat extend beyond technical problem-solving. The software has streamlined workflows, particularly in the early stages of project planning.
“The network sizing process has been greatly simplified and improved,” Simon explained. “Once the layout is defined, Fluidit allows us to quickly size the network. The software’s GIS export and processing capabilities then enable us to seamlessly integrate this sizing into our costing and business plan tools.”
For more complex projects, Fluidit Heat allows Simon’s team to compare different design options rapidly, helping them assess the impact of various configurations on both capital (CAPEX) and operational (OPEX) costs.
The efficiency gains from using Fluidit Heat translate directly into cost savings for Groupe E. The ability to quickly study multiple scenarios and select the best option has been particularly valuable.
“We have also been able to carry out various optimizations on operating networks,” Simon said. “In some cases, a day of work on Fluidit and adjusting plant controls resulted in savings of several thousand francs in operating costs.”
Future Outlook
Simon emphasized the growing importance of district heating in Switzerland’s efforts to decarbonize urban areas. He believes that innovative tools like Fluidit Heat will play a critical role in advancing these systems.
“The goal is to continue expanding existing district heating networks and developing new ones,” Simon explained. “One of the main challenges is lowering network temperatures to improve the efficiency of heat pumps and maximize the use of recoverable heat sources.”
He also highlighted the need for simulations to manage the increasing complexity of these networks, which will integrate a growing number of heat sources and prosumers.
When asked if he would recommend Fluidit Heat to others in the utility and engineering sectors, Simon’s response was clear:
“Yes definitely, the entire process of creating a model – from importing GIS data to configuring the model, analyzing different scenarios, and comparing results – is smooth and efficient. The tools within the software enable the creation of professional graphical representations, which greatly facilitate communication and collaboration with various stakeholders.”
Conclusion
Fluidit Heat has become an essential tool for Groupe E as they navigate the challenges of modernizing district heating networks and supporting Switzerland’s energy transition. By streamlining processes, solving complex challenges, and delivering measurable results, the software empowers Simon and his team to drive innovation and sustainability in their work. For companies looking to enhance their hydraulic modeling capabilities, Fluidit Heat offers a proven solution.
To learn more about how Fluidit can support your projects, please contact us.
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