New Aalborg University Hospital reduces emissions with sustainable district cooling

New Aalborg University Hospital

New Aalborg University Hospital Achieves Energy Efficiency and Comfort

New Aalborg University Hospital (NAU) partnered with Aalborg Forsyning to implement Denmark’s most effective and sustainable district cooling systems. Using lake water for free cooling and advanced Sabroe ChillPAC chillers and Sabroe HeatPAC heat pumps for peak demand, the hospital achieved major energy savings and reduced emissions while ensuring reliable, patient comfort for its 330,000 m² facility.

Impact Highlights

80% electricity savings compared to past systems used in the old hospital

500–700 tonnes of annual CO2 reduction

Achieved up to eight times the efficiency of conventional cooling systems

Delivering sustainable cooling for a large-scale healthcare facility

New Aalborg University Hospital needed a reliable cooling solution for patient comfort, equipment protection, and air quality control across multiple specialized buildings. The system had to meet strict sustainability goals while ensuring consistent performance during seasonal demand fluctuations.

District cooling powered by nature and technology

Aalborg Forsyning implemented a district cooling system using cold water from a nearby chalk lake, providing free cooling for up to 80% of demand. For peak periods, the system integrates three Sabroe ChillPAC chillers and two Sabroe HeatPAC heat pumps, delivering flexibility and heat recovery for other customers.

“The project is expected to be one of the most energy efficient refrigeration plants in the world, with an all-year efficiency of up to 23, where conventional plants are two to five. So, we expect to have a reliable system that is up to eight times as efficient as conventional cooling”

Michael Sandager
Role/Company: Project Engineer, Aalborg Forsyning

Exceptional efficiency and environmental impact

New Aalborg University Hospital’s cooling system up to eight times the efficiency of conventional solutions, reducing electricity consumption by 80% and cutting CO₂ emissions by 500–700 tonnes annually. By incorporating Sabroe ChillPAC chillers and Sabroe HeatPAC heat pumps, the hospital benefits from reliable cooling performance and operational flexibility during seasonal peaks. This approach helps lower operating costs, reduce maintenance needs and strengthen overall energy resilience. The system’s compact design minimizes noise and vibration, creating a quieter environment for patients and staff while freeing space for clinical functions. With a cooling capacity of 11 MW, New Aalborg University Hospital can support sensitive medical equipment and specialized treatment areas without compromising reliability.

About New Aalborg University Hospital

New Aalborg University Hospital is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility in northern Denmark, spanning 330,000 m². It combines advanced medical services with sustainable infrastructure, including psychiatric care, oncology, patient hotel, outpatient services, and research facilities. The hospital is designed to deliver exceptional patient care while meeting ambitious environmental and energy efficiency goals.

Aalborg Forsyning is a municipal utility group providing district heating, cooling, gas, water, and energy services. The NAU project marks their first large-scale district cooling initiative, setting a benchmark for sustainable energy solutions in Denmark.

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About the facility

330,000 m² hospital complex
Includes psychiatric hospital, oncology house, patient hotel, outpatient house, and service village
Located in northern Jutland, Denmark

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