Bachelor thesis: Research on Dynamic Heat Tariff Concepts in Austria and Europe

AEE INTEC

AEE – Institute for Sustainable Technologies (AEE INTEC) is a non-university research institute founded in 1988.
AEE INTEC currently employs around 90 scientists from eleven nations and continuously awards dissertations,
master’s theses and internships. AEE INTEC works in the fields of “Buildings”, “Cities and Networks”,
“Technology Development” and “Industrial Systems” on fundamental and application-oriented research in
national and international R&D projects in cooperation with universities, colleges, other research institutions
and industry.

Research Project TarifFlex

The TarifFlex project investigates the feasibility of applying dynamic heat tariffs in district heating networks.
Dynamic tariffs, which are already common in the electricity sector, provide price signals that encourage
customers to shift consumption to low-demand periods. The project explores existing approaches, evaluates
applicability for district heating networks, and prepares the ground for further demonstration projects with heat
suppliers.

Outline of the Bachelor thesis

The goal of the thesis is to identify and analyze existing approaches, pilot projects, and regulatory frameworks
related to dynamic pricing in district heating.
The student will:

  • Conduct a structured literature and market review on dynamic heat tariff models
  • Identify tariff mechanisms (e.g., time-variable tariffs, day-ahead cost-based tariffs) and classify them
  • Investigate regulatory and practical requirements for implementing dynamic tariffs in district heating
    networks
  • Prepare a clear overview of (mapping, tables or factsheets) of case studies and existing approaches
  • Derive key insights for the TarifFlex project

We expect…

  • Interest in energy systems, district heating and innovative pricing models
  • Solution-focused, independent, motivated and responsible working practices
  • Ongoing studies in energy engineering, energy management, environmental engineering, renewable
    energy systems or a related field

We offer…

  • Paid Bachelor thesis, embedded in a current national research project
  • Intensive support from experienced employees in the field of thermal energy technologies
  • Planned duration: 3 months
  • Start: from now on
  • Arbeitsort: Gleisdorf, Österreich

Kontakt für inhaltliche Fragen und Bewerbungen:

Hr. Xhoi ZHUPANI
x.zhupani@aee.at