Gap analysis of current practices and policies

REHEATEAST has published a new technical report analysing how district heating and cooling (DHC) systems in eight Danube-region countries measure up against EU climate and energy ambitions. The “Gap analysis of current practices and policies” (Deliverable D.2.1.4) identifies where existing district heating and cooling networks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia still rely on outdated, fossil-based infrastructure and where regulatory, financial and social barriers slow down the green transition.

The study highlights common regional challenges such as ageing networks, dominance of natural gas and coal, fragmented ownership and regulation, limited financial incentives, data gaps in heat planning, and low consumer engagement. At the same time, it points to strong stakeholder motivation to cut greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security, modernise infrastructure and tackle energy poverty through new pilot projects supported by the REHEATEAST partnership. The findings will directly inform upcoming pilot actions under Specific Objective 2, helping cities and utilities design replicable, low‑carbon DHC solutions that can be scaled across the Danube Region.

You can download the report from here.