Marine heat pumps: Efficient solutions for modern energy needs
Heat pumps can be used not only for heating individual buildings but they are also employed in larger projects. One such solution is the use of seawater as a thermal energy source, which can provide unexpected benefits.
The operation of heat pumps requires a source of thermal energy. Typically, air or the ground is used, but there is also potential for other media, such as river water or seawater. For example, heat pumps have been connected to a river in Germany and can also function using seawater.
Where are marine heat pumps used?
According to the globenergia.pl service, installations based on marine heat pumps are already in use in Finland, France, and Denmark. There are plans to launch a pilot system in Croatia, at the Viktor Lenac shipyard, which is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the country. This system aims to provide heating and cooling for buildings in Martinscica.
What are the benefits of using marine heat pumps?
The benefits of using marine heat pumps include more efficient heating and cooling compared to standard pumps. When cooling, using heat from seawater tends to be more efficient due to more stable temperatures compared to external air.
One of the advantages of the marine heat source is less temperature variability throughout the year, improving thermal comfort compared to large swings in air temperature.
Marine heat pumps positively affect those not directly using this heat source. These systems can reduce the effect of the so-called urban heat island, which arises from the impact of air conditioners.
What will marine heat pumps replace?
The new heat pump in Croatia will replace existing water-to-water installations and electric boilers. The current systems have a capacity of about 280kW, including approximately 100kW from a heat pump drawing energy from technological water. Considered uneconomical and inefficient, the new project will replace the current system, costing around £400 million. The new solution is already in effect.
