Eco-economic analysis of different heating systems for a new housing project

Given the large energy consumption of energy heating for residential and commercial use in the world, optimising heating systems makes sense, both from an ecologic and an economic point of view. Therefore, this study evaluates five different space heating systems through a case study on a new housing project. The assessment comprises both economic factors (payback period as compared to a reference heating system) and ecologic (E-levels,K-value and CO2 emissions) under different energy price scenarios. The results clearly indicate that large differences occur, mainly driven by the yearly energy consumption of the systems. The more traditionally used systems with condensing heating systems with radiators or classical electric heating systems tend to perform worse than more recent systems with underfloor heating and/or heat pumps. These results are true for all scenarios with regard to the evolution of energy prices and are valid for both the ecologic and economic aspects. Key-Words: Space heating systems; economic evaluation; ecologic analysis; heat pump; condensing heating unit; underfloor heating; radiator; electric heating