GÖRLITZ / ZGORZELEC, April 2026 — Germany and Poland have started construction on United Heat, a cross-border renewable heating system connecting Görlitz and Zgorzelec. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions and modernize heating systems in both cities.
The initiative will cut about 50,000 metric tons of emissions each year. It will replace gas-based heating in Görlitz and coal and natural gas systems in Zgorzelec. Instead, the project will use cleaner energy sources like heat pumps, biomass, and solar thermal.
Clean Energy System
United Heat combines several renewable technologies. These include heat pumps, biomass, and solar thermal energy. In addition, the system uses power-to-heat technology and thermal storage. It also captures waste heat from sewage gas.
As a result, the system improves efficiency and reduces energy waste.
Cross-Border Connection
Theproject creates a strong link between the two cities. A sewage treatment plant will act as the main hub. It can transfer up to 15 megawatts of heat in either direction. Therefore, both cities can share energy based on demand.
The infrastructure includes:
- A 3.8 km pipeline between the cities
- Around 12 km of additional pipelines in Germany
Project Partners
Stadtwerke Görlitz leads the project with support from SEC Zgorzelec.
Stadtwerke Görlitz is part of the Veolia Group. Meanwhile, SEC Zgorzelec operates under E.ON.
Drees & Sommer manages project planning and execution.
Why It Matters
United Heat supports the goal of climate-neutral heating by 2030. Moreover, it shows how cities can work together to solve energy challenges.
Experts say projects like this improve energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In addition, cross-border systems can make energy use more flexible and efficient.
What Comes Next
Construction is now underway. Next, teams will build the pipeline network and install key systems. After that, they will test the heat exchange process.
Once completed, United Heat could serve as a model for similar projects across Europe.
