Course on Urban Heating and Cooling Networks
About our
The Urban Heating and Cooling Networks Course explores the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of urban heating and cooling systems, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability. Technologies such as cogeneration plants, heat pumps, thermal storage, and network distribution are studied, addressing aspects of system regulation and modeling. The integration of renewable energies is analyzed, and practical implementation cases in urban environments, crucial for the decarbonization of the sector, are examined. The program facilitates knowledge of simulation tools to optimize energy performance, as well as the analysis of the economic viability of projects and compliance with applicable regulations. Prepares students for professional roles such as project engineers, network specialist technicians, energy managers, and energy efficiency consultants, promoting employability in the field of sustainable construction and the energy transition.
Course on Urban Heating and Cooling Networks
- Format: Online
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours: 300 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Start date: 12-12-2026
- Available places: 3
725 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. **Design, Implementation and Optimization of Urban Heating and Cooling Network Systems**
Here is the requested content:
- Fundamentals and Key Components: Understand the structure and operation of urban heating and cooling networks, including their main components such as generation plants (CHP, boilers, chillers), distribution networks (pipes, valves, pumps), and terminals (buildings, facilities).
- Systems Design: Learn to design efficient and sustainable networks, considering thermal demand, site conditions, material selection, and network configuration (direct and reverse piping, district heating and cooling).
- Modeling and Simulation: Use simulation software to model network behavior, optimize design, predict performance, and evaluate the impact of different operating scenarios.
- Practical Implementation: Learn the stages of network implementation, from construction and component assembly to commissioning and operational testing.
- Operational Optimization: Develop strategies to optimize network operation, including real-time control and monitoring, energy management, loss reduction, and demand response.
- Renewable Energy Integration: Explore the integration of renewable energy sources (solar thermal, geothermal, biomass) into networks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve sustainability.
- Economic and Regulatory Analysis: Evaluate the economic viability of projects, analyze investment and operating costs, and understand the regulatory framework and policies supporting district heating and cooling networks.
- Demand Management and Energy Efficiency: Implement strategies for managing thermal demand and increasing energy efficiency in buildings and facilities connected to the grid.
- Case Studies and Best Practices Practical Experience: Analyze case studies of successful urban heating and cooling networks worldwide and learn best practices in design, implementation, and operation.
Emerging Technologies: Explore the latest technologies in the field, such as thermal storage, artificial intelligence for network optimization, and fifth-generation grid heating and cooling (5GDHC).
2. **Comprehensive Mastery of the Planning, Construction and Efficiency of Urban Thermal Networks**
Here is the requested content:
2. **Comprehensive Mastery of the Planning, Construction, and Efficiency of Urban Heating and Cooling Networks**
Understand the fundamental principles of thermodynamics applied to urban heating and cooling networks.
Analyze energy demand and consumption patterns in urban environments.
Evaluate different energy sources for heating and cooling networks, including renewable energy and cogeneration.
Design and optimize the configuration of distribution networks, considering hydraulics and thermodynamics.
Select and size key equipment, such as boilers, chillers, pumps, and piping.
Apply simulation and modeling tools to predict the performance of heating and cooling networks.
Implement energy efficiency strategies, including insulation, control, and demand management.
Manage the construction and maintenance of heating and cooling networks. ensuring safety and durability.
3. Comprehensive user-oriented design and validation (from modeling to manufacturing)
You will learn to integrate the entire product development process, from initial model conception to final validation, applying user-centered methodologies. You will develop skills in parametric design, ergonomics, simulation, sustainable materials, 3D visualization, and manufacturing management, ensuring efficient, safe solutions that meet current industry standards.
4. **Key Strategies for the Operation, Maintenance and Expansion of Urban Thermal Networks**
4. **Key Strategies for the Operation, Maintenance, and Expansion of Urban Thermal Networks**
Comprehensive evaluation of energy efficiency in thermal distribution systems.
Optimization of network operation, including pressure and temperature control.
Troubleshooting and diagnosis of key components such as pipes and heat exchangers.
Analysis of predictive and preventive maintenance strategies to minimize disruptions.
Planning and design of network expansion, considering new connections and demands.
Study of the integration of renewable energy sources into the urban thermal network.
Implementation of remote monitoring and control technologies for efficient management.
Cost-benefit analysis of different network expansion and improvement options.
Compliance with environmental and safety regulations and standards in network operation.
Development of simulation models for performance optimization and failure prediction.
5. **Specialized Engineering in the Design, Analysis and Management of Urban Thermal Networks**
5. **Specialized Engineering in the Design, Analysis, and Management of Urban Thermal Networks**
- Fundamentals of thermodynamics applied to urban networks: principles, laws, and specific applications.
- Design of thermal distribution networks: selection of components, pipes, valves, and heat exchangers.
- Analysis of heat losses and energy efficiency in distribution networks.
- Modeling and simulation of thermal networks: software tools and analysis methodologies.
- Management of the operation and maintenance of urban thermal networks: monitoring, control, and optimization.
- Integration of renewable energy sources into thermal networks: solar thermal, geothermal, and biomass.
- Case studies and examples of urban thermal network implementation.
- Relevant regulations and standards in the design and operation of thermal networks.
- Economic and financial analysis of thermal network projects.
- Quality and safety management in urban thermal networks.
6. **Analysis and Optimization of Energy Efficiency in Urban Heating and Cooling Networks**
6. **Analysis and Optimization of Energy Efficiency in Urban Heating and Cooling Networks**
- Understand the fundamentals of urban heating and cooling networks: design, components, and operation.
- Identify and analyze the main energy performance indicators (KPIs) in heating and cooling networks.
- Evaluate energy consumption at different stages of the system: generation, distribution, and final consumption.
- Apply simulation and modeling tools to analyze the energy behavior of the networks.
- Identify opportunities to improve the energy efficiency of existing networks.
- Optimize the design of new networks to maximize energy efficiency.
- Analyze the impact of thermal demand on system efficiency.
- Study efficient generation technologies (cogeneration, heat pumps, etc.) and their integration into the network.
- Implement demand management strategies to reduce energy consumption.
- Analyze the use of renewable energy in heating and cooling networks (solar thermal, geothermal, etc.).
- Evaluate the impact of optimization on operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Understand the regulations and standards related to energy efficiency in heating and cooling networks.
Who this program is for:
Course on Urban Heating and Cooling Networks
- Engineers with degrees in Energy, Environmental, Industrial, Civil, or related fields.
- Professionals from energy service companies (ESCOs), engineering firms, consulting firms, and network operators.
- Technicians and managers of energy departments in public administrations and real estate developers.
- Individuals interested in energy efficiency, urban sustainability, and heating solutions.
Recommended qualifications: Basic knowledge of thermodynamics and fluids. Language level: Not specified.
- Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with CS-27/CS-29, DO-160, DO-178C/DO-254, ARP4754A/ARP4761, ADS-33E-PRF from the first module.
- Accreditable laboratories (EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
- Evidence-oriented TFM: safety case, test plan, compliance dossierand operational limits.
- Mentored by industry: teachers with experience in rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
- Flexible modality (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
- Ethics and security: safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.
Module 1 — Design and Optimization of Urban Heating Networks
1.1 Fundamentals of Urban Heating Networks: Concepts and Types
1.2 Conceptual Design of Heating and Cooling Networks: Technology Selection
1.3 Component Sizing: Generation, Distribution, and Consumption
1.4 Modeling and Simulation of Heating Networks: Tools and Techniques
1.5 Design Optimization: Technical and Economic Aspects
1.6 Case Studies: Network Design in Different Urban Contexts
1.7 Life Cycle Cost Analysis: Economic Evaluation
1.8 Selection of Materials and Equipment: Criteria and Considerations
1.9 Detailed Network Design: Piping, Insulation, and Heat Exchangers
1.10 Integration with Renewable Energies: Solar Thermal, Biomass, and Geothermal
2.2 Feasibility Study and Strategic Planning of Urban Heating and Cooling Networks
2.2 Conceptual Design and Technology Selection for Heating and Cooling Networks
2.3 Detailed Engineering and Technical Specifications for Heating and Cooling Networks
2.4 Selection of Components and Equipment for Urban Networks
2.5 Hydraulic and Thermodynamic Design of Heating and Cooling Networks
2.6 Construction Aspects and Project Management for Heating and Cooling Networks
2.7 Integration with Existing Infrastructure and Urban Planning
2.8 Quality Control and Testing in Network Construction
2.9 Project and Budget Management for Heating and Cooling Networks
2.20 Case Studies: Planning and Construction of Successful Networks
3.3 Modeling and Simulation of Thermal Infrastructures
3.2 Cost-Benefit Analysis in Thermal Network Projects
3.3 Risk Management in Network Construction and Operation
3.4 Design of Control and Automation Systems
3.5 Implementation of Remote Monitoring Systems
3.6 Optimization of Operational Performance
3.7 Planning and Management of Network Expansion
3.8 Infrastructure Life Cycle Assessment
3.9 Energy Demand Management
3.30 Case Studies and Best Practices
4.4 Operating Strategies for Urban Thermal Networks
4.2 Preventive and Corrective Maintenance: Best Practices
4.3 Real-Time Operation Optimization
4.4 Energy Demand Management in Thermal Networks
4.5 Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting
4.6 Strategic Planning for Network Expansion
4.7 Design of New Connections and Expansions
4.8 Integration of Renewable Energy Sources
4.9 Modeling and Simulation for Network Expansion
4.40 Case Studies: Expansion and Operation of Successful Networks
5.5 Design Principles in Urban Heating Networks
5.5 Modeling and Simulation of Heating and Cooling Networks
5.3 Selection and Sizing of Key Components
5.4 Fluid Flow and Distribution Analysis
5.5 Piping and Insulation Systems Engineering
5.6 Design of Heat Exchanger Stations
5.7 Integration of Energy Sources and Cogeneration
5.8 Design of Control and Automation Systems
5.9 Performance and Efficiency Optimization
5.50 Case Studies: Design of Successful Heating Networks
6.6 Fundamentals of Energy Efficiency in Urban Heating Networks
6.2 Energy Assessment and Diagnosis in Heating and Cooling Networks
6.3 Thermodynamic Analysis and Fluid Flow in Heating Networks
6.4 Optimization of Energy Generation in Urban Networks
6.5 Optimization of Energy Distribution in Heating Networks
6.6 Demand Management and Thermal Load Profiles
6.7 Implementation of Insulation and Heat Recovery Technologies
6.8 Modeling and Simulation of Heating Networks for Optimization
6.9 Cost-Benefit Analysis of Energy Optimization Measures
6.60 Case Studies and Best Practices in Energy Optimization
- Hands-on methodology: test-before-you-trust, design reviews, failure analysis, compliance evidence.
- Software (depending on licenses/partners): MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), OpenVSP, SU2/OpenFOAM, Nastran/Abaqus, AMESim/Modelica, acoustics tools, planning toolchains DO-178C.
- SEIUM Laboratories: scale rotor bench, vibrations/acoustics, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL for AFCS, data acquisition with strain gauging.
- Standards and compliance: EN 9100, 17025, ISO 27001, GDPR.
Capstone-type projects
Admissions, fees, and scholarships
- Profile: Background in Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields; practical experience in NLP and valued information retrieval systems.
- Documentation: Updated CV, academic transcript, SOP/statement of purpose, project examples or code (optional).
- Process: Application → Technical evaluation of profile and experience → Technical interview → Review of case studies → Final decision → Enrollment.
- Fees:
- Single payment: 10% discount.
- Payment in 3 installments: No fees; 30% upon registration + 2 equal monthly payments of the remaining 35%.
Monthly payment: available with a 7% commission on the total; annual review.
Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial need, and promoting inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships.
See “Calendar & Calls for Applications,” “Scholarships & Grants,” and “Fees & Financing” in the SEIUM mega-menu.
Do you have any questions?
Our team is ready to help you. Contact us, and we will respond as soon as possible.
F. A. Q
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we have international certification
Yes: experimental models, real data, applied simulations, professional environments, real case studies.
It is not mandatory. We offer leveling tracks and tutoring.
Completely. It covers e-propulsion, integration, and emerging regulations (SC-VTOL).
Recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortiums.
Yes. Online/hybrid modality with planned labs and visa support (see “Visa & Residence”).