Formulation of MILP models to assess the techno-economic impact of district heating electrification in energy communities

Transitioning district heating in energy communities (ECs) from fossil-fuel to electrification requires advanced analytical tools for long-term assessment and informed decision-making. This paper proposes two novel mixed-integer linear programming models for a Finnish EC with diverse power-generating and storage units, with gas boiler and electric boiler configurations to promote sector-coupling. Both models are simulated over a year using operational data to compare operating costs, carbon emissions, and reliance on local renewable electricity generation. Results show that the electric boilers configuration significantly reduces emissions, lowers costs, and improves local renewable energy utilization, highlighting the benefits of electrifying ECs for future sustainability.