METHOD FOR ASSESSING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE DISTRICT HEATING SYSTEM UNDER MARKET CONDITIONS

In response to global warming and the critical need for sustainable energy solutions, district heating systems (DHS) have emerged as an area of significant focus due to their potential to enhance resource efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and improve economic outputs. This research addresses the critical issue of establishing a methodological framework for evaluating the efficiency of DHS as market relations evolve within the heating sector. The study's aim is to develop and validate methodological principles that assess the operational, economic, and technological dimensions of DHS in a competitive market landscape. The framework encompasses the complex interplay of regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, production technologies, and consumer engagement strategies. Key objectives include analyzing current challenges in implementing competitive market structures, justifying the non-linear nature of cost functions for energy producers, and developing criteria for the equitable distribution of thermal energy losses. The overarching goal is to strategically propel DHS towards greater efficiency and sustainability by using renewable energy sources (RES). The research utilizes simulation modeling in a case study of Irpin city, Ukraine, employing machine learning and computer vision technologies through the "Solvergy: Buildings" mobile application to provide rapid, detailed energy performance assessments. Results from the simulation in "Solvergy: Systems" software indicate benefits from the market conditions functioning in DHS, quantified at $727,120 per year, and highlight the cost-saving potential of the RES-based supply diversification structure. The relative market efficiency at 28.05% suggests that the market delivers high potential economic value relative to a scenario without market conditions. The study concludes that transitioning to market relations and integrating independent energy producers can lead to substantial system efficiency improvements, lower thermal energy prices, and enhanced sustainability in DHS. Suggested policy measures advocate for the modernizing of infrastructure and the implementation of efficient technologies within a competitive, consumer-oriented market environment, thereby facilitating the decarbonization process and optimizing system performance.