Electrification of Heat Supply – Key to Achieving Climate Neutrality Goals
The electrification of the heat supply sector, currently interspersed throughout Latvia, is crucial for achieving the country’s climate neutrality goals, according to industry experts.
A diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from industry, discussed this pivotal topic extensively at the annual heat supply industry conference organized by DB *Heat supply and energy technologies in 2024*.
Experts underscored the need for closer collaboration between the electricity and heat supply sectors, highlighting the numerous benefits this synergy could bring, including more efficient utilization of existing infrastructure and price stability.
Speeding up the Transition is Key**
Ina Bērziņa-Veita, president of the Latvian Heat Companies Association (LSUA), observes that the electricity and heat supply sectors are currently not cooperating effectively. “Toward closer cooperation, we are prepared. We believe the market is mature enough to support this partnership.
Renewable capacities, including solar and wind power, are experiencing rapid growth, creating an opportunity for forward-thinking entrepreneurs.”
attention on the existing infrastructure
in
the heat
sector, helping to determine which established burning capacities should be electrified,
allowing us to implement electric boilers and storage solutions.
To embark on this journey, we need to evaluate the interconnection possibilities, understanding the roadmap for high – voltage and distribution networks.
The benefits are tangible:
reduced emissions, stabilized prices, and grid stability. Yet, taking control shouldn’t be solely on energized . This requires a well-defined roadmap from the high-voltage network for but also
from heat
companies participating in the electricity market of the future,” she elaborates.
**Integration is Underway**
G. Junghāns observes that cooperation exists but somewhat sporadically. . “Many co-generation stations and individuals utilizing heat pumps or other heat generating equipment already exist within the electricity
What are the environmental benefits of electrifying heat supply in Latvia?
## Interview: Accelerating Heat Supply Electrification in Latvia
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show today, Gatis Junghāns, member of the board of AS Augstsprieguma tīkls (AST). You recently spoke at the annual heat supply industry conference about the electrification of heat supply in Latvia. Can you tell us why electrification is so crucial right now?
**Gatis Junghāns:** Absolutely. [1] As we strive towards climate neutrality, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources in heating is essential. Electrifying the heat supply allows us to leverage renewable resources like wind and solar energy for heat generation. This shift will dramatically reduce emissions from the heating sector and bring us closer to our climate goals.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned benefits beyond just environmental impact. What are some of the economic advantages to this transition?
**Gatis Junghāns:** Indeed! Diversifying heat generation through various renewable sources can lead to cost reductions, ultimately benefiting consumers with lower heating bills.
Additionally, [1] closer collaboration between the electricity and heat supply sectors can optimize infrastructure usage and promote price stability. Amazingly, this transformation can also strengthen the power grid by facilitating integration of larger wind and solar power plants, making the system more adaptable and resilient.
**Interviewer:** This all sounds very promising. Are there any roadblocks to achieving this vision?
**Gatis Junghāns:** The transition is gaining momentum, but it still needs a strong push. We need incentives and policy support to accelerate the electrification process. This could include financial incentives for consumers and businesses to transition to electric heating systems.
**Interviewer**: What message would you have for our listeners today? What can they do to support this transition?
**Gatis Junghāns:** Stay informed about available solutions, explore options for transitioning to electric heating, and engage in conversations with local authorities about supportive policies. Together, we can make a significant impact on achieving a cleaner and more sustainable future for Latvia.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your insights, Gatis. This has been a very informative discussion.
