Renewable geothermal energy converting heat pumps from Stiebel Eltron

(09/01/2007)

Stiebel Eltron, which is exclusively distributed through Applied Energy, has won one of the largest single domestic heat-pump orders in the UK, supplying more than 41 new households with renewable, geothermal energy converting heat pumps. The new Housing Association development for the Local Authority on the Isle of Skye is to utilise naturally occurring energy from Brine and Water source Stiebel Eltron Heat-Pumps.

Ice Scotland, an approved Applied Energy heat-pump installer, is undertaking the ground works for the geothermal collectors on what is thought to be one of the largest single domestic renewable energy projects around. Projected energy cost savings put the Stiebel Eltron heat pump system as 50% cheaper than oil, the only other local fuel alternative. Massive savings on heating bills and reductions in carbon emissions drove this project.

The Brine Water Heat pump system being installed at the Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association site operates by drawing latent energy from the water and ground, which is transported to the pump heat-exchanger whereby, the exchanger – containing liquid refrigerant – absorbs the heat and evaporates. The compressor draws the gaseous process inside for compressing and as the pressure increases so the temperature rises. A second heat exchanger draws the heat into the heating circuit. Finally, the expansion valve reduces pressure and the whole cycle begins again.

With non-renewable energy sources like oil and gas in ever-decreasing supply and costs rapidly increasing, utilising the environment is the obvious naturally sustainable, low cost heat source alternative.

Related categories:  Energy Conservation   Heat pumps   Residential applications