United Heat connects the district heating networks of Görlitz and Zgorzelec. Discover how cross-border cooperation drives decarbonisation and energy security in our region.
United Heat is a groundbreaking cross-border energy transformation project. By joining forces, the cities of Görlitz (DE) and Zgorzelec (PL) are taking bold steps toward the decarbonisation of their district heating systems, creating a modern, environmentally friendly heating infrastructure powered entirely by renewable energy sources.
Up to 50.000 tonnes of CO2 saved annually
Strong political support and EU funding
Energy mix based on 100% renewable sources
Innovative district heating supply concept connecting two countries
The supply concept relies on a mix of climate-neutral technologies.
Biomass – 48%
Based on combustion of wood chips or biomethane. Most of the heat generated from biomass is used in Zgorzelec. In Görlitz, the biomass share remains below 25%.
Heat Pumps – 33%
Heat is extracted from the Berzdorf Lake, as well as from wastewater, in order to generate district heating.
Solar Energy – 17%
The system integrates solar thermal collectors and seasonal heat storage to provide a reliable renewable heat source all year round.
Power to Heat – 1%
Heat production using renewable electricity, bridging supply gaps in a flexible and efficient way.
Waste Heat – 1%
Recovery of residual heat from the CHP unit at the Görlitz wastewater treatment plant adds efficiency to the overall system.
The United Heat project builds on a cross-border energy partnership to decarbonise district heating systems in both cities. Using local renewable sources and climate-neutral technologies, the system delivers sustainable heat where it’s needed most.
Cross-border cooperation in connecting district heating networks
Approximately 12 km of connecting routes are planned, along which additional customers may be connected in the future.
ZGORZELEC
Peak load (W/S): 20/4,5 MW
Heat quantity: 65 GWh
GOETHESTRASSE
Peak load (W/S): 1,8/0,2 MW
Heat quantity: 4,2 GWh
KÖNIGSHUFEN
Peak load (W/S): 22/2 MW
Heat quantity: 60 GWh
WEINHÜBEL
Peak load (W/S): 6/1 MW
Heat quantity: 17,3 GWh
RAUSCHWALDE
Peak load (W/S): 4,1/0,4 MW
Heat quantity: 8,9 GWh
United Heat aligns closely with the EU’s climate and energy policies:
European Green Deal
supports the goal of climate neutrality by 2050
Energy Efficiency Directive
improves energy use and reduces losses
German Energy Building Act (GEG)
all infrastructure complies with modern energy efficiency standards
Connecting Europe Facility – Cross-Border RES
up to 50% of costs covered by EU funding
Görlitz and Zgorzelec, located on opposite sides of the Lusatian Neisse River, form a unique model of cross-border cooperation as a European City. The region of Upper Lusatia and Lower Silesia has long been shaped by coal-based energy, but today it is becoming a symbol of green transformation. United Heat enables residents on both sides of the border to enjoy clean, reliable heating while maintaining a high quality of life.
