Jens Bolze-Prasuhn, Senior Commercial Project Manager, is an expert in large-scale heat pumps and hybrid heating systems at Viessmann Climate Solutions (A Carrier Company)
98% decarbonisation in the Bracht local heating scheme: large heat pumps in a hybrid system with solar thermal energy and seasonal storage – cost-effectiveness, operation and the co-operative model
Drawing on the practical example of the completed Bracht local heating project, this presentation demonstrates how hybrid heat supply systems comprising large-scale heat pumps, solar thermal energy, seasonal heat storage and biomass backup can achieve a high proportion of renewable energy coverage. The focus is not only on technical solutions, but also, in particular, on cost-effectiveness, operational strategy and risk minimisation for operators and customers.
The project comprises, amongst other things, 11,600 m² of solar thermal panels, a seasonal storage tank with a capacity of 26,600 m³, and two large-scale heat pumps with a combined thermal output of around 1 MW. Around 180 households are supplied via a local heating network.
Using specific operational data, the report presents key performance indicators (KPIs), heat pump deployment strategies and influencing factors such as electricity prices and connection density. Furthermore, the cooperative operating and financing model is examined. Finally, transferable insights for municipal heating networks and neighbourhood solutions are highlighted.
Language: German | AI translation into English available