Innomotics, a globally leading provider of electric motors and large drive systems, has played a pivotal role in the realization of the largest heat pump system in the Netherlands. It is located at the municipal wastewater treatment plant in Utrecht. The system harnesses residual heat from 65 million liters of treated wastewater daily, generating 25-27 MW of heat. This translates to 15% of the district heating demand in Utrecht and Nieuwegein or approx. 20,000 households in total. Thanks to Innomotics’ state-of-the-art motors and frequency drives, the project achieves unparalleled energy efficiency while saving 30,000 tons of CO2 annually.

Innomotics supplied:

▪ 8 Perfect Harmony GH180 frequency drives

▪ 8 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.”

Collaboration project with showcase character

The project is the result of a seamless collaboration between ENECO, Johnson Controls, and Innomotics. ENECO spearheaded the development of the facility, Johnson Controls provided the advanced heat pump systems, and Innomotics delivered 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, Manager Engineering 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,” adds Sander Tensen.