More information
Description
By applying for the project "Seawater heat pump system - VIKTOR LENAC d.d." (VLEN), the implementation of the seawater intake and the improvement of the central heating system by the installation of a SWHP within the Stara Martinšćica zone as a unique technological unit of VLEN is envisaged.
The PROBLEM that the project wants to solve is the fact that the existing heat pump that draws heat energy from process water, due to the high cost of concession fee for process water, is not financially viable or adequately energy efficient compared to seawater heat pumps.
Accordingly, the OBJECTIVE OF THE PROJECT is to improve the central heating system by installing a seawater intake as well as SWHP to supplement the heating system of the Stara Martinšćica zone (TOST 2) which would achieve additional use of renewable energy sources, reduce electricity consumption and consequently reduce CO2 emissions. Also, the implementation of the project will strengthen the capacity to manage and promote renewable energy sources.
The target groups that will be covered by the project activities are:
DIRECT TARGET GROUPS
- Shipyards at national level as potential future beneficiaries of the European Economic Area Financial Mechanism;
- Other potential future beneficiaries at local and regional level (small, medium and large enterprises);
- Population of the Municipality of Kostrena and the City of Rijeka - the general public (persons ranging from 18 to 65 years of age).
INDIRECT TARGET GROUPS
- Ministry of the Economy;
- Units of local and regional self-government;
- Media.
Summary of project results
The project "Heat Pump System with Seawater – Viktor Lenac Shipyard" aimed to address critical energy and environmental challenges. The existing heating system at Viktor Lenac Shipyard, which relied on a water-water heat pump and electric boilers, was both financially unsustainable and energy inefficient due to high costs associated with using technological water and operational energy expenses. Furthermore, the reliance on electric boilers contributed significantly to CO2 emissions, negatively impacting the environment and contradicting efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Another pressing issue was the high cost of maintenance and the shipyard''s dependence on non-renewable energy sources, which reduced energy security and increased operational costs. The project focused on these challenges by introducing a seawater heat pump system (SDTMV) that uses the constant temperature of seawater as a renewable energy source. This innovation aimed to increase energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and significantly decrease CO2 emissions, aligning with the broader objectives of the "Energy and Climate Change" program to promote renewable energy and combat climate change.
The project successfully implemented a range of activities to achieve its goals. A seawater heat pump system (SDTMV) was installed, following the preparation of detailed technical documentation necessary for procurement and installation. This system enabled the harnessing of seawater''s thermal energy, which increased renewable energy production capacity and reduced CO2 emissions. Additionally, project management was carried out by a dedicated team, which included financial experts, administrative assistants, and energy specialists. The shipyard staff and external consultants collaborated to oversee procurement, technical documentation, and project execution. Communication and outreach were essential components, with three workshops and one roundtable held to raise awareness about energy efficiency and the benefits of renewable energy. Promotional activities included the creation of brochures, online and offline campaigns, and media coverage, enhancing the project''s visibility. These efforts not only ensured the project''s completion but also strengthened its role as a model for energy-efficient practices in the industry.
The project achieved significant results, benefiting a variety of stakeholders. It installed a 0.2 MW capacity system, producing an estimated 156 MWh of renewable energy annually while reducing CO2 emissions by 36.6 tons per year. These outcomes directly benefited the Viktor Lenac Shipyard by reducing heating costs, improving energy efficiency, and decreasing reliance on non-renewable energy sources, which enhanced financial performance and competitiveness. The shipyard''s employees experienced improved working conditions due to optimized heating and cooling systems, while workshops raised their awareness of energy efficiency and sustainable practices. The local community benefited from the environmental improvements, including reduced CO2 emissions, which contribute to cleaner air and combat climate change. Additionally, the project set a positive example for the shipbuilding industry, showcasing the feasibility of renewable energy solutions in industrial applications and encouraging similar initiatives in the sector.