Waste heat could cover up to 10 percent of Berlin's future heating requirements
18.01.2024
Source: idw - Informationsdienst Wissenschaft e. V.
A lot of unused heat is generated in companies such as data centers, large bakeries or coffee roasting plants.
A Berlin project shows that up to ten percent of the city's future heating requirements can be covered by this waste heat. In addition to the manufacturing and service sectors, subway stations, tunnels and hydrogen production are also important sources. The analysis by IÖW and ifeu on behalf of the Berlin Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and the Environment shows measures to specifically promote the use of waste heat.
The waste heat potential was determined through company surveys and expert interviews. The current potential is around 1,200 gigawatt hours per year, which theoretically corresponds to three percent of Berlin's heat consumption. By 2045, this could rise to 3,800 gigawatt hours, half of which could be used to cover around ten percent of future heat consumption.
The analysis emphasizes that waste heat in Berlin is small-scale and at a low temperature level. Even low temperatures below 25 °C can be harnessed for heat supply using heat pumps. The scientists recommend a package of measures, including the creation of a central point of contact, simplified approval procedures and the development of financing offers for waste heat projects.
Accessibility
Language
