The world’s largest heat pump: A game changer in Helsinki’s quest for green energy
Helsinki is expected to revolutionize urban heating systems with the construction of the world’s largest heat pump, designed to heat 30,000 households during cold Finnish winters while significantly reducing carbon emissions. This groundbreaking heat pump will provide 200 GWh of thermal energy annually, helping the city cut 26,000 tons of CO2 emissions. Notably, it operates efficiently even at temperatures as low as -20°C, using only renewable energy sources.
District heating is a widely adopted strategy to maximize energy efficiency, in which heat is produced centrally and then distributed to individual homes and businesses through a network. underground pipeline. While this method is popular in cities worldwide, it often relies on fossil fuels to generate heat. Helsinki is aiming to change that narrative.
The International Energy Agency reports that nearly half of Finland’s heating and cooling energy comes from biomass. As Helsinki strives to reach its carbon neutrality goal by the end of the decade, city officials are upgrading the district heating system to incorporate more clean and renewable energy sources. Juhani Aaltonen, Vice President Green Energy Investments at Helen Oy, the Finnish energy company running the program, said: “Helsinki has set an ambitious target of being carbon neutral by 2030 and the transition Heating systems play an important role in achieving that goal.” heating system.
Unlike traditional heating or air conditioning systems that are only effective during one season, heat pumps are more energy efficient and can operate year-round in all weather conditions. A heat pump works on a simple principle: it transfers heat from a cooler area to a warmer area, thereby cooling the cooler area further and warming the warmer area. This process is achieved by using electricity to raise a low temperature to a higher and usable temperature. While most heat pumps use environmentally harmful gases as refrigerants, the Helsinki facility will use carbon dioxide instead.
Heat pump manufacturer, CO2 is a refrigerant that allows the system to deliver hot water up to 90°C while operating in temperatures as low as -20°C. The facility’s heat production capacity ranges from 20 to 33 MW, depending on ambient temperature, making it the largest heat pump in the world. The system is also unique due to its oil-free compressor motor, which uses high-speed motors and active magnetic bearings, eliminating the need for a sealed air system or lubrication system.
The electricity that powers heat pumps comes from renewable sources such as wind and solar energy, allowing heating needs to be shifted from fossil fuels to green energy. Together with the 50 MW boiler, the heat pump will provide 200 GWh of thermal energy annually to 30,000 households in Helsinki, helping to reduce the city’s CO2 emissions by 26,000 tons. The heat pump is expected to enter service in 2026-2027, providing price stability to customers thanks to an easily adjustable production process.
Helsinki’s innovative heating method is an important step towards a greener future, setting a precedent for cities worldwide to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining energy efficiency and sustainability.
