WESTBOROUGH, Mass. — The International District Energy Association (IDEA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in conjunction with the Korea District Heating & Cooling Association, the China District Heating Association, Euroheat & Power, and the Ministry of Energy of the Mongol Government.

The MOU defines common objectives and a collaborative framework intended to increase deployment of district energy and combined heat and power (CHP) systems in the respective countries and around the globe so as to increase energy efficiency, reduce emissions, strengthen local and regional economies, and deliver the societal and environmental benefits of efficient district energy systems and CHP.

The main objectives outlined in the international MOU are:

1. District heating and cooling systems play an important role in promoting environmental protection and sustainability, serving as one of the most effective means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As such, each party will work to enhance sustainability on the local, regional, and global levels by facilitating mutual collaboration and exchange of information with regard to district heating and cooling systems, including combined heat and power, the incorporation of renewables, and deployment of microgrids.

2. Each party must reinforce cooperative activities in the following areas: (a) information exchange on policy and law; (b) information exchange on technology standards and trends of technology development; (c) enhancing energy saving, efficiency, and environmental protection; (d) survey analysis and research activities; (e) education, training, seminars, and site visits; (f) support for smooth implementation of joint projects between countries; and (g) regular information exchange necessary for the implementation of other agreements.

Rob Thornton, president and CEO of IDEA, said, “I want to thank KDHC President and CEO Mr. Sung-hei Kim for his leadership on this initiative, for hosting this important event, and sponsoring the signing of this memorandum of understanding among our organizations and our respective countries. I want to congratulate President Kim and all the dedicated employees of Korea District Heating Corporation on their 30th anniversary of operations. As urban energy intensity grows along with global population migration to cities, it is increasingly important that we modernize and accelerate investment in more sustainable and resilient district energy systems in our cities and communities. IDEA is pleased to support this important initiative to enhance global cooperation and increase sharing of industry best practices.”

For more information, visit www.districtenergy.org.

Publication date: 9/18/2015

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