Final answer:
A district heating system is a central energy conversion plant and transmission system that provides thermal energy to a group of buildings. It eliminates the need for individual cooling systems in buildings by distributing cold water from a central cooling plant to the buildings through pipelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
A central energy conversion plant and transmission and distribution system that provides thermal energy to a group of buildings is called a district heating system. This system starts with a central plant that produces thermal energy, such as a central cooling plant on a university campus. The thermal energy is then distributed through pipelines to buildings, where it is used for heating purposes.
For example, in a district heating system, a central cooling plant generates cold water and distributes it to various buildings through a network of pipes. This allows the buildings to be cooled without the need for individual cooling systems. The central plant is responsible for converting the thermal energy into a form that can be easily used by the buildings.