Primary energy factor for district heating networks in European Union member states

The use of Primary Energy Factor (PEF) was chosen by European Union policy makers as an obligatory part of methodology for comparing the primary energy consumption of products, using different energy sources. Approaches for definition of primary energy differ in EU member states. Different methodologies and definitions of primary energy factors have impact on calculation of energy sector key indicators, including district heating (DH) sector. The aim of the research was collection, analysis and systematization of data about PEF and its calculation and definition methods for DH in EU Member states. Method used for data collection about EU Member States with adequate share of DH in heat supply is meta-analysis systematic review methodological approach, using as main data sources legislation and standards currently in force, which are used to regulate implementation of PEF in EU Member States with adequate share of DH in heat supply. The main criterion for the classification of DH PEF in different countries is PEF determination procedure. Based on this criterion three main groups were analysed: single fixed DH PEF, differentiated DH PEFs, DH PEF, calculated for each DH network independently. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.