How large-scale heat pumps are revolutionizing district heating

Characteristics of large heat pumps

Heat pumps are a technology that is already well established in residential and commercial settings, where they have proven their reliability, efficiency, and sustainability. In recent years, this technology has begun to push beyond traditional boundaries, finding application in the district heating sector as well.

In particular, high-temperature and large-scale heat pumps are emerging as one of the most promising solutions for heat electrification. With efficiency levels (COP) exceeding 100%, heat pumps are already cost-effective compared to traditional solutions, especially in countries and regions where electricity costs are comparable to fossil fuels per unit of energy.

Furthermore, these systems are capable of replacing fossil fuel plants, ensuring a drastic reduction in CO₂ emissions. Their distinctive feature is their ability to achieve high thermal power and temperatures suitable for direct injection into the district heating network, thus expanding their range of application to large urban and industrial contexts.

Large-scale heat pump scenarios

The new generations of heat pumps are already being used in a wide range of scenarios.

• Large-scale district heating: projects exceeding 25 MWth per single unit are now a reality. These installations are able to exploit heat sources from natural resources (e.g., river and sea water or geothermal resources), wastewater treatment plants, or waste heat from industrial processes. The use of these sources makes it possible to create circular and highly sustainable energy systems.
• Integration with industrial processes: energy-intensive sectors such as pulp & paper, food & beverage, chemical, pharmaceutical, refining, and petrochemical are beginning to benefit from large-scale heat pumps. These allow for the efficient electrification of heat production for processes, drastically reducing operating costs and avoiding CO2 emissions. In addition, it is possible to recover and utilize waste heat that would otherwise be dissipated, reducing consumption.
• Synergy with advanced decarbonization technologies: heat pumps can be effectively integrated with carbon capture and storage (CCS) systems implemented in hard-to-abate industries for direct air capture, which are essential solutions for achieving climate neutrality goals. In this way, they can guarantee an increase in the CO2 capture rate itself.

Technical specifications for district heating

Recent technological developments have further expanded the potential of large heat pumps. In this context, Turboden has developed an innovative turbo compressor, designed specifically for heat pump technology applications.

By combining its range of turbomachinery with its expertise in defining suitable thermodynamic cycles and working fluids, Turboden offers systems capable of reaching higher temperatures and meeting the needs of modern district heating systems. Furthermore, thanks to the use of heavy-duty compressors, heat pumps can now guarantee unprecedented installed power, exceeding 70 MWth per single unit. This evolution makes the technology suitable for both large urban areas and industrial contexts characterized by particularly high energy consumption.

Future trends in the sector

The role of large-scale heat pumps in the European energy landscape is set to grow in the coming years, driven by several factors:

• Electrification and renewables: the increase in renewable sources in the European energy mix will make heat pump-based projects increasingly competitive in economic terms.
• Electricity grid balancing: these solutions can contribute to grid balancing, ensuring flexibility for the electricity system and better use of the renewable energy produced.
• European regulations: Heat pumps are already recognized as one of the most mature and reliable technologies for reducing CO₂ emissions, and this regulatory recognition will promote their widespread use.
• Flexible refrigerants: The ability to choose and adapt the refrigerant according to regulations and operational requirements will make heat pumps even more versatile and ready to meet future requirements.

The key role of Turboden

Large-scale heat pumps are now an essential technology for the future of district heating and industrial decarbonization. Their ability to combine sustainability, efficiency, and operational flexibility makes them a strategic tool in the energy transition that European cities are undergoing.

In this scenario, Turboden stands out as one of the leading international players, thanks to the development of advanced solutions that combine technological innovation and practical application.

A prime example is the project launched with ORI Martin, one of Italy's leading steelmakers. At the Brescia plant, Turboden has built a large heat pump that will utilize waste heat from the electric arc furnace. The plant will be capable of delivering a nominal thermal power of 6 MWth and will enable the efficient recovery of energy lost during production processes. This heat, which will be utilized through the city's district heating network, will make a tangible contribution to reducing emissions and improving the sustainability of the local area.

The project is part of a broader vision of industrial and urban decarbonization. In addition to the heat pump, ORI Martin was also supplied with an ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) system, which further increases the overall efficiency of the plant and consolidates its role as a model for heavy industry in Europe.

Through initiatives such as this, Turboden demonstrates that large-scale heat pumps are no longer just a promise for the future, but a concrete reality already capable of revolutionizing district heating. These solutions enable cities to reduce their environmental impact, make use of waste heat, and guarantee sustainable thermal energy for communities, contributing decisively to the decarbonization process and the construction of more livable and efficient urban centers. Contact us now for more information!