How big is a solar thermal system in Austria?

This limits the system size. Systems in the medium range of 100–500 m2 are common in Austria, with around eight times more systems built in this range between 2010 and 2016 compared to large-scale systems . Recently, combining large-scale solar thermal systems with heat pumps has become more common.

Can a solar assisted central heating plant be used in EU climate zones?

Economic and environmental potential analyses for solar assisted central heating plants in the EU residential sector showed that a solar fraction above 90% can be achieved for many EU climate zones .

Is solar thermal heat supply a risk minimizing strategy?

An advantage which is largely neglected is the long-term price stability of large-scale solar thermal systems as O&M costs are very low. Solar thermal heat supply is typically associated with high financial risks. The use of risk minimizing strategies could turn the perceived disadvantage into an asset. 8. Conclusion

Are solar energy resources a good predictor for large-scale solar thermal systems?

Solar resources alone are not a good predictor for the success of large-scale solar thermal systems. China, Germany and Austria have fewer installed systems than Denmark, but a broader range of applications encompassing rural and urban networks and industrial applications.

What are the conditions for solar thermal integration in DH networks?

The conditions for solar thermal integration in DH networks in China, Germany and Austria are not as favorable as in Denmark. DH is more widespread in Germany and Austria than in China, but DH temperature levels are generally high.

How much heat does a solar thermal plant consume?

Solar thermal plants contribute to around 5% of the renewable heat consumption and to around 0.6% of the total heat consumption . The share of households connected to DH networks was 14% in 2016 (5.8 million households) with a heat consumption of 49 TWh.