Vieth, JonathanJonathanViethHeise, JohannesJohannesHeiseMostafa, MarwanMarwanMostafaBecker, ChristianChristianBeckerSpeerforck, ArneArneSpeerforck2026-08-112026-08-112026-07-14Sustainable Energy Grids and Networks 47: 102418 (2026)https://hdl.handle.net/11420/64315This paper presents a constrained multi-objective optimization approach for the simultaneous extension and operation planning of integrated energy networks. The integrated energy network comprises a district heating network, an electric energy network, a gas network, and decentralized heating technologies such as pellet boilers. The approach dissects the area of interest into zones. Each zone is represented by a novel model based on the energy hub concept. Therefore, the approach is scalable and allows for the planning of metropolitan areas. The zones are connected by overlying energy networks. The overlying energy networks and the zones are simulated for one year. The simulation is executed within an optimization. In addition, the approach is capable of accounting for the limits of the integrated energy network’s extension. Consequently, it allows for a realistic planning of future integrated energy networks.en2352-46772026Elsevierhttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Co-planningDistrict heating network modelingDistrict heating network simulationEnergy hubIntegrated energy network optimizationNatural Sciences and Mathematics::537: Electricity and ElectronicsJournal Article10.1016/j.segan.2026.10241810.15480/882.17882