The new energy supply for two SMA buildings was completed just in time for the last heat wave. Modern heat pumps supply an office building, the electronics production area and the research and development area, replacing the outdated combination of a biogas combined heat and power plant and refrigeration unit. The reversible heat pumps use natural refrigerant and can heat as well as cool. They save around 1,600 megawatt hours of gas per year, making a considerable contribution to decarbonizing SMA‘s energy supply.
“The sustainable use of energy is a key aspect of SMA’s sustainability strategy. By using the new heat pumps, we also want to demonstrate how businesses can make their heating and cooling supply climate-friendly,” said Jürgen Reinert, SMA Chief Executive Officer. “Our goal is to not only drive forward the energy transition with our products and energy solutions but to play a leading role in shaping a better future by anchoring and embodying sustainability in all areas of the company.”
The new heat pumps ensure a demand-oriented supply of heating and cooling
The innovative heat pumps on the roof of the SMA building use the natural refrigerant propane R290, which is highly energy efficient and has exceptional thermodynamic properties. It does not damage the ozone layer and, with a global warming potential (GWP) value of 3, has a much lower greenhouse effect than standard refrigerants used up to now. The heat pumps either heat or cool the building as desired, perfectly meeting all of the employees’ needs. The additional electricity demand required to operate the heat pumps is covered by the solar energy produced on the SMA roofs.
“Through the design of our buildings and the development and implementation of innovative energy supply concepts, the Corporate Real Estate Management department contributes to achieving SMA‘s ambitious sustainability goals,” said Bastian Schmitt, Corporate Energy Manager at SMA. “The two large heat pumps that have replaced the biogas CHP plant are an example of this.”
Energy from the region contributes to a 100% renewable supply
SMA has been producing and using renewable electricity for years. All of its power needs at its headquarters in Niestetal, Germany, are covered by 100% renewable energy from a large number of PV systems ranging from a few kW to 5.4 MW as well as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this agreement, SMA purchases all the energy produced by a 5.7 MW PV system in Niederhone near Eschwege, Germany.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
