Denmark – MAN Energy Solutions has installed the world’s largest electro-thermal energy storage (ETES) heat pump, powered by CO2 refrigerant, in the heart of Esbjerg, Denmark.
Powered by two 50 MW heating systems, fueled by nearby wind farms, this industrial-scale heat pump is set to usher in a new era of clean, efficient district heating.
This achievement marks the end of coal-fired heat for district heating in Esbjerg, a significant step towards decarbonization. With the district heating and seawater systems already commissioned, this innovative solution is poised to start operation this fall, as MAN Energy Solutions proclaims. The solution will provide essential heat to 25,000 households while producing an astonishing 350,000 MWh of heat annually.
Adaptability
One of the key highlights of this revolutionary heat pump is its adaptability. Capable of achieving a scorching maximum temperature of 150°C, it delivers water to the city’s district heating network at a 90°C. However, what truly sets it apart is its ability to harness excess wind and solar power. This surplus energy, which would otherwise be wasted, is converted into heat, meticulously stored, and then distributed to customers during periods when sunlight and wind are in short supply.
Harnessing renewable energy
The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond Esbjerg’s borders. It serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities of harnessing renewable energy sources efficiently and sustainably. As the world grapples with the urgent need to transition to greener energy alternatives, Esbjerg’s heat pump project stands as a shining example proving that cleaner, more sustainable district heating solutions are not just a dream but a reality.
Esbjerg’s journey towards ditching coal in favor of CO2 heat pumps is a remarkable testament to the potential of innovative technologies and the power of human ingenuity.
