Urban decarbonisation relies on a critical shift from individual building retrofits to centralised infrastructure solutions.
We explore how district heating transforms urban energy by centralising heat production and utilising local waste sources, providing a secure and cost-effective alternative to fossil fuel boilers.
David Connolly, CEO of HeatGrid Ireland and Chairperson of the Irish District Energy Association, joins us to break down how to scale this technology. David brings deep expertise from his time in Denmark and his leadership in national energy planning projects, helping us understand the practical path forward for Ireland.
Things We Spoke About
Defining district heating systems
History of European adoption
Energy security and stability
Barriers to Irish implementation
Future of heating systems
GUEST DETAILS
David Connolly is the CEO of HeatGrid Ireland, a company developing low-carbon district heating networks.
He is also the Chairperson of the Irish District Energy Association, which he co-founded in 2017. A former Associate Professor at Aalborg University, he led the Heat Roadmap Europe project and previously served as CEO of Wind Energy Ireland.
MORE INFORMATION
About The Energy Canvas Podcast
The Energy Canvas is brought to you by Celtic Dynamics, exploring the intersection of engineering innovation, sustainability, and business success in Ireland's evolving energy landscape. Each episode features conversations with industry leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs driving real climate action and decarbonisation solutions.
Subscribe and Connect
To stay updated on the latest episodes and energy sector insights, visit celticdynamics.ie or search "The Energy Canvas" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.
Get In Touch
Have a question about energy systems, hydrogen technology, or want to suggest a future guest? Contact us at www.celticdynamics.com or connect with Celtic Dynamics on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/celtic-dynamics.
This podcast is produced by DustPod.io, creating compelling audio content that drives conversation and action in the energy and sustainability sectors.
QUOTES
Far more people have succeeded at putting pipes in the street than they have at retrofitting every single building in a city with an alternative low-carbon solution. - David Connolly
If you imagine now you have a boiler heating an entire city, it is much easier to replace that boiler with a renewable energy source at one location to supply all the homes. - David Connolly
Whenever there is a global shortage or crisis they do not feel this on their fuel prices because they do not use oil or gas to heat their homes any longer. - David Connolly
KEYWORDS #DistrictHeating #EnergySecurity #UrbanDecarbonisation #EnergyInfrastructure #HeatGridIreland
What is The Energy Canvas with Celtic Dynamics?
The Energy Canvas breaks down what actually works in energy saving and compliance requirements.
We bring you straight talk from energy experts with real stories from businesses that have cut costs and hit their sustainability targets. No jargon, no fluff—just practical advice on audits, compliance, grants, and energy savings that impact your bottom line today.
Whether you're managing facilities, controlling budgets, or leading sustainability efforts, you'll hear how companies like yours are turning energy challenges into wins.