Cheongna Energy (CEO Choi Tae-hee) recently held a comprehensive technical training session for approximately 80 building managers from the Cheongna and Geomdan new cities in Incheon's Seo-gu district, as well as Gyeonggi Province's Gimpo new city. The training, conducted on April 10th, 2025, focused on the efficient operation and maintenance of district cooling systems in anticipation of the increased demand during the upcoming summer season.

This proactive initiative by Cheongna Energy marks the first time the company has provided specialized district cooling education to building managers in the Seo-gu and Gimpo areas prior to the summer months. The five-hour intensive training program was meticulously designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize the performance of their cooling systems, ultimately aiming to reduce operational costs and alleviate potential repair expenses for users.

The curriculum of the technical training centered on the essential equipment integral to district cooling systems, with a significant emphasis on absorption chillers. Attendees received detailed explanations of the structure and operational principles of these chillers, alongside practical guidance on maximizing their efficiency. Furthermore, the training covered the structure and function of Pressure Differential Control Valves (PDCVs), which play a crucial role in regulating flow within the system. Participants were also provided with essential protocols for addressing and resolving common issues that may arise during operation.

Highlighting the significance of the training, Cheongna Energy CEO Choi Tae-hee stated, "Current forecasts indicate that summer will arrive earlier than in previous years. As the duration of the summer cooling season gradually extends, we are witnessing a corresponding increase in interest surrounding district cooling systems."

He further elaborated on the rationale behind the initiative, saying, "Reflecting this trend, we organized this district cooling technical training. Moving forward, we are committed to consistently conducting various educational programs targeting facility and billing personnel at apartment complexes and commercial buildings. Our aim is to proactively prevent complaints and ultimately enhance customer satisfaction."

Cheongna Energy currently supplies district heating and cooling energy to a total of 465 consumer sites, including apartments, officetels, and commercial buildings, across the Cheongna and Geomdan new cities in Incheon, and the Gimpo new city in Gyeonggi Province. This encompasses approximately 170,000 households in apartment complexes alone, underscoring the extensive reach and importance of Cheongna Energy's services in the region.

Understanding District Cooling Systems

District cooling is a centralized system that produces chilled water in a central plant and distributes it through a network of underground insulated pipes to multiple buildings in a district or city. This chilled water is then used by the buildings' air conditioning systems to cool indoor spaces. District cooling offers several advantages over traditional individual building cooling systems, including increased energy efficiency, reduced refrigerant use (which can have environmental benefits), lower noise levels, and simplified maintenance for individual buildings.

The absorption chillers, a key focus of the training, utilize a heat-driven process to produce cooling, often using waste heat or alternative energy sources, which can contribute to energy savings and reduced reliance on electricity during peak demand periods. Understanding the intricacies of these chillers is crucial for building managers to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the equipment.

Pressure Differential Control Valves (PDCVs) are vital components in district cooling networks as they maintain a stable and efficient flow of chilled water throughout the system, regardless of varying demands from different buildings. Proper understanding and maintenance of PDCVs are essential for preventing imbalances and ensuring equitable cooling delivery across the service area.

The Growing Importance of Efficient Cooling in Urban Environments

As urban areas continue to grow and climate change leads to more frequent and intense heatwaves, the demand for efficient and reliable cooling solutions is steadily increasing. District cooling systems are emerging as a sustainable and effective way to meet these cooling needs in densely populated areas. By centralizing the cooling production, these systems can achieve economies of scale and implement advanced technologies that may not be feasible for individual buildings.

Furthermore, district cooling can play a significant role in reducing peak electricity demand, which often strains power grids during hot summer months. By shifting some of the cooling load to thermal energy sources or off-peak electricity, district cooling can contribute to a more stable and resilient energy infrastructure.

Cheongna Energy's Commitment to Customer Satisfaction and Sustainable Operations

Cheongna Energy's proactive approach to educating its users highlights its commitment to customer satisfaction and the efficient operation of its district cooling network. By empowering building managers with the necessary technical knowledge, the company aims to minimize operational disruptions, reduce maintenance costs for users, and ensure the comfortable living and working environments for the vast number of households and businesses it serves.

The company's dedication to providing ongoing education reflects a broader understanding of the evolving energy landscape and the increasing importance of sustainable cooling solutions. As the demand for district cooling continues to grow, initiatives like this technical training will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of these vital infrastructure systems.

Cheongna Energy's efforts not only benefit its direct customers but also contribute to the overall energy efficiency and sustainability goals of the Cheongna, Geomdan, and Gimpo new cities. By fostering a knowledgeable user base, the company is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and environmentally conscious urban environment. The commitment to future educational programs further underscores Cheongna Energy's long-term vision for customer engagement and operational excellence in the district energy sector.