A leadership conversation: Flexibility, digitalization, and the future of district heating

As energy systems continue their transition toward decarbonization, district heating is playing an increasingly important role in building sustainable, cost-effective, and resilient energy infrastructure. Flexibility and digitalization are emerging as key enablers, helping companies integrate diverse energy sources while maintaining reliability and efficiency.

In this discussion, industry leaders Luiz Hanania (CEO & President, Veolia Poland) and Timo Aaltonen (SVP, Helen) share their perspectives on how district heating systems are evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing energy landscape.

Luiz explains how modern district heating systems can act as powerful aggregators of multiple energy sources – optimizing system performance while reducing emissions. Timo highlights the growing importance of flexibility in balancing renewable energy integration and supporting electricity grid stability through intelligent heat networks.

While local market conditions differ across Europe, many district heating companies face similar challenges. Conversations like this provide valuable opportunities to exchange experiences, learn from one another, and collectively advance toward more sustainable and flexible energy systems.

Watch the discussion below and explore how district heating is helping shape the future of global energy systems.