APPLICATION OF THE COST-BENEFIT METHOD FOR DETERMINING HEAT SUPPLY ZONES IN SETTLEMENTS

Determining the type of heat supply (centralized, autonomous, individual) is a key issue in the modernization and development of centralized heating systems. This paper analyzes international experience in defining centralized heating zones, highlighting the typical approach of using a ratio of energy and geometric characteristics for the designated development area. It is proposed that these indicators serve as a preliminary step in zoning, aiming to identify areas requiring more detailed analysis with the cost-benefit method. The methodology for applying the cost-benefit method to substantiate the choice of a specific type of heat supply for a particular area is discussed. Based on the proposed methodology, computational studies were conducted for a model development area. Results indicate that, in addition to energy-geometric indicators, factors such as fuel and electricity prices, energy source type, the condition of heating networks, and other factors influence the choice of heat supply type. For zones with extensive, worn-out heating networks, replacing outdated gas boilers with more efficient models is shown to be economically unjustified. For gas-based centralized heating zones, it was demonstrated that the feasibility of modernization and development in these areas primarily depends on the availability of a heat source capable of producing significantly cheaper heat energy compared to gas boilers. Bibl. 15, Fig. 8, Tab. 4.