Vattenfall enables sustainable district heating in Berlin with heat pumps

The Buch combined heat and power (CHP) plant in the north of Berlin faced increasing pressure to supply heat to 10,000 apartments and 500 facilities, including schools and clinics. Expanding capacity without relying on fossil fuels required a solution that could utilize existing waste heat efficiently while minimizing environmental impact.

To meet demand without increasing emissions, the Vattenfall installed Sabroe HeatPAC heat pumps. These compact, reliable units use high-pressure reciprocating compressors to deliver exceptional capacity with a small footprint and minimal refrigerant charge. By converting waste heat into hot water with minimal electrical energy, the heat pumps reduce operating costs and environmental impact. With a coefficient of performance (COP) between 6.0 and 6.5, they provide high efficiency under varying temperature conditions.

The installation enabled the Buch CHP plant to meet heating demand without additional carbon emissions. Key outcomes include:

• Increased district heating capacity for thousands of homes and facilities
• Avoidance of approximately 620 tonnes of CO₂ annually
• Improved performance and reliability with COP up to 6.5
• Lower electricity use for heat conversion, reducing operating costs

Vattenfall is a major Swedish energy producer and retailer committed to achieving fossil-free living within one generation and delivering sustainable heating solutions for urban communities.