World’s Largest Heat Pump to Warm Helsinki
Helsinki is set to unveil the world’s largest air-to-water heat pump, a major step in decarbonizing the city’s heating system. This massive installation will help heat approximately 30,000 homes and is a key component in Helsinki’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The new plant will use electricity from renewable sources to operate, even in temperatures as low as -20°C.
Green Investment for Carbon Reduction
The project, led by Finnish energy company Helen Oy, aims to cut down CO2 emissions significantly. Vice President of Green Investments Juhani Aaltonen highlights the plant’s role in reducing emissions and providing price stability for consumers. The Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has supported the project with a subsidy, emphasizing its importance in the country’s green transition.
Heat Pump Details and Environmental Impact
German manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions is supplying the giant heat pump. It will work alongside two 50MW electric boilers, collectively providing enough heat for 30,000 homes while cutting around 26,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. Notably, the heat pump will use CO2 as a refrigerant, a more environmentally friendly option compared to other harmful gases.
Advancing Renewable Energy in Heating
Heating and cooling account for about half of the EU’s energy consumption, with a significant portion still derived from fossil fuels. Finland leads the way in integrating climate-friendly heating technologies, with 41% of buildings equipped with heat pumps. In 2021, a €1 million competition was held to find the best solution to decarbonize Helsinki’s heating system, ultimately ruling out biomass to avoid impacting the forestry sector.
Role of Urban District Heating
Uwe Lauber, CEO of MAN Energy Solutions, emphasizes the importance of climate-neutral urban district heating projects. The new heat pump plant represents a crucial development in Helsinki’s energy transition and showcases Finland’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. This project aligns with global efforts to adopt sustainable energy solutions and advance renewable energy use in urban environments.
SOURCE: Ref Image from MAN Energy Solutions
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