SDU Center for Energy Informatics Presents AI-Driven District Heating Research at NetVarme

Hvidovre, Denmark – October 7, 2026: The SDU Center for Energy Informatics (SDU CEI) was invited to speak at NetVarme’s thematic day on artificial intelligence in district heating, held at Hvidovre Fjernvarmeselskab / EBO Consult. NetVarme is a network of district heating companies in Zealand. The center was represented by Professor Hamid Reza Shaker and PhD student Tobias V. R. Jensen.

In their presentation, “Data-Driven Asset Management for District Heating Systems,” the researchers highlighted ThermoSense, a project developing an intelligent maintenance solution for district heating pipes. The approach combines network records and historical failures with operational data, clamp-on sensors and drone-based thermal images. Using AI, it aims to identify early warning signs, assess pipe failure risk and estimate remaining service life, helping utilities prioritise inspections and pipe renewal.

The presentation also introduced DistrictHeat+, a decision-support interface designed to bring network information, predictive analyses and maintenance planning together. With AI-assisted, conversational access to complex data and models, the concept aims to make research findings easier for utility staff to interpret and apply in practice.

For district heating operators, more informed maintenance decisions could mean fewer emergency repairs and unexpected outages, better-timed pipe replacements and lower heat losses and associated emissions. The NetVarme event offered an opportunity to exchange perspectives with utility professionals and discuss how research can help address the practical challenges of maintaining buried energy infrastructure.