Innomotics powers largest heat pump system in the Netherlands

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March 2025 Motion Control & Drives

Innomotics, a global leader in the provision of electric motors and large drive systems, has played a pivotal role in the realisation of the largest heat pump system in the Netherlands. Located at the municipal wastewater treatment plant in Utrecht, the system harnesses residual heat from 65 million litres of treated wastewater daily, generating 25 to 27 MW of heat. This translates to 15% of the district heating demand in Utrecht and Nieuwegein or about 20 000 households in total. Thanks to Innomotics’ state-of-the-art motors and frequency drives, the project achieved unparalleled energy efficiency while saving 30 000 tons of CO₂ annually.

Innomotics supplied eight Perfect Harmony GH180 frequency drives and eight A-Compact Plus units with one spare, providing optimal operational flexibility.

The system consists of four heat exchangers, each with two compressors driven by an Innomotics 1MW motor, which in turn are each controlled by an Innomotics GH180 frequency drive. These components are integral to extracting residual heat from 65 million litres of treated wastewater daily. The system uses ammonia, a natural, environmentally friendly refrigerant, to supply heat to the Utrecht district heating network. Additionally, 1 MW of extra heat is recovered from the motors and drives, contributing to the district heating network’s efficiency.

“This project exemplifies how advanced motor and drive solutions can transform energy challenges into sustainable opportunities,” said André Hillebrink, technical sales support professional at Innomotics. “We are proud to contribute to a system that not only brings us closer to achieving renewable energy goals but also directly benefits local communities.”

ENECO spearheaded the development of the facility, with Johnson Controls providing the advanced heat pump systems, and Innomotics supplied the cutting-edge motor and drive technologies that ensure its exceptional performance. Combined the companies have created a replicable model for modern urban renewable energy systems.

“This project exemplifies ENECO’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Innomotics’ innovative motors and drives were essential to the success of this project,” said Sander Tensen, engineering manager at ENECO. “Innomotics’ cutting-edge technology and reliability ensured that we could achieve both high energy efficiency and substantial CO₂ savings, making a real difference for our district heating network and the environment,” concludes Tensen.

Innomotics is a globally leading provider of electric motors and large drive systems that combines deep technical expertise and leading innovation in electrical solutions across industries and regions. With over 150 years of experience in electric motor development, the company serves as a reliable foundation for drive technology across various industries and infrastructures worldwide. Innomotics is a thought leader in the areas of industrial efficiency, electrification, sustainability, and digitalisation. The company is headquartered in Nuremberg, Germany and employs around 15 000 people worldwide, with its annual revenue exceeding 3 billion Euros. With 17 production sites and a comprehensive sales and service network in 49 countries, Innomotics has a well-balanced global presence in a growing market.

For more information, contact Jennifer Naidoo, Innomatics, [email protected], www.innomotics.co.za

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Motion Control & Drives

Innomotics powers largest heat pump system in the Netherlands

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