4E 3 - Leveraging District Energy to Overcome Electric Infrastructure Limitations in Large-Scale Redevelopment

Presentation Description: As cities pursue decarbonization and large redevelopment, electric infrastructure limits increasingly constrain progress. This presentation explores how district energy systems can reduce distribution and capacity needs while enabling scalable, low-carbon thermal service. Drawing on case studies in Utah and Colorado, we highlight how centralized thermal systems—using heat pumps, storage, and diverse heat sources—lower peak demand and avoid major upgrades. We outline key tradeoffs with building-level electrification and offer guidance for developers, utilities, and policymakers.

Case Study: Ball Arena District Energy - District Energy Feasibility and Planning to support the redevelopment of the Ball Arena property in Denver. Existing equipment at the existing Ball Arena facility will be leveraged to avoid substation improvements and development delays.

Utah City District Energy - Concrete example of peak load reduction from Electrified business as usual development case through the implementation a district system, network diversity, and sensible peaking technologies. With support from Corix.

Sector Coupled Heat Recovery - Denver wastewater effluent as a heating source supplying decarbonized heat to multiple thermal districts, avoiding building electrification upgrades.