Work Item B.4 of Subtask B in IEA EBC Annex 84 explores how monitoring, sensing, and control technologies can enable demand response (DR) and improve the performance of district heating and cooling (DHC) sys-tems. As DHC networks evolve toward low-temperature operation for decarbonization, accurate and real-time data from buildings and substations becomes essential to unlock flexibility and system optimization.
The report begins by examining the current status of sensors and monitoring systems within DHC networks. While production and distribution systems are typically well-monitored, building-level substations often lack sufficient instrumentation. This deficiency hampers proactive fault detection and contributes to inefficiencies such as high return temperatures. Incorporating standardized sensor sets—including temperature, pressure, flow, and energy meters—enables smarter control and better system diagnostics.
The study highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization. Key opportunities include the integration of IoT devices, smart meters, and AI/ML algorithms to enable predictive maintenance, dy-namic heat control, and user feedback. However, challenges remain in managing large volumes of data, ensuring interoperability across devices and platforms, and maintaining data privacy and cybersecurity. Reg-ulatory hurdles and varying technical standards also add complexity across different regions.
A major focus is the required sensor technologies for effective DR at the building level. Examples include heat cost allocators, electronic radiator thermostats with return temperature control, and smart IoT-enabled devices such as room temperature collectors and balance valves. These technologies not only support real-time monitoring but also allow decentralized control strategies that enhance energy efficiency and user com-fort.
The report also maps the architecture of IoT systems, breaking them into five functional layers (perception, network, middleware, application, and business) and discussing the key communication protocols (e.g., MQTT, CoAP, LoRaWAN, OPC UA). It emphasizes that IoT-enabled smart control infrastructure allows for dynamic energy management, remote diagnostics, and the scaling of DR strategies across diverse building types.
In conclusion, Work Item B.4 presents a compelling case for modernizing DHC networks through smart sens-ing and control. It offers insights into current technologies, identifies gaps and limitations, and outlines path-ways for future integration—ultimately paving the way for more flexible, efficient, and user-centric district heating systems.