Innomotics Powers Largest Heat Pump System in the Netherlands

Utrecht, February 03, 2025 – 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.

Find out more about this project: ENECO | Innomotics
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Innomotics GmbH
Dario Artico
E-Mail: dario.artico@innomotics.com Redefining reliable motion for a better tomorrow. Innomotics GmbH 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 its more than 150 years of experience in developing electric motors, the company is the backbone for reliable drive technology in industry and infrastructure worldwide. Innomotics is a thought leader in the areas of industrial efficiency, electrification, sustainability, and digitalization. The company is headquartered in Nuremberg (Germany) and employs around 15,000 people worldwide. Annual revenue exceeds 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, visit www.innomotics.com.

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