Use of excess heat from power intensive industries
Krefter’s main goal, beside utilising only renewable energy, is to reuse the excess heat that comes from our power intensive processes. That way we achieve double value, with double the workplaces, double the output value and significantly increased overall value given to the local community the data centres, battery or hydrogen factories are located.
One of the most common uses of excess heat from data centers is in heating systems for buildings. By transferring the heat from the data center to a nearby building, the building can be heated using renewable energy, reducing the need for conventional heating methods. This approach is particularly beneficial in cold climates where heating is a significant energy demand.
However, another important consideration when placing power intensive industry is how close it is to the power source. The closer, the lesser environmental impact and more local value. Hence, district heating and other sources of heating are not always applicable.
The more interesting ways to use the excess heat however, is perfect where there are more access to land, water and other natural resources. Here is a list of the various industries and purposes we are currently working on for our sites in Norway, more detailed plans will be shared shortly:
Aquaculture: Excess heat can be used to regulate the temperature in aquaculture systems, allowing for year-round production of fish and other seafood. This could provide an important source of food for local communities and reduce the dependence on imported seafood.
Desalination: Excess heat can be used to improve the efficiency of desalination processes, which can provide a valuable source of fresh water in areas with limited water resources.
Therapeutic Applications: Excess heat can be used in therapeutic applications such as saunas and hot tubs, providing a more sustainable alternative to traditional heating methods.
Space Heating: Excess heat can be used to heat spaces such as schools, hospitals, and public buildings, reducing the demand for traditional heating methods.
Greenhouses: Excess heat can be used to heat greenhouses, allowing for year-round production of fresh fruits and vegetables. This can provide a valuable source of food for local communities and reduce the environmental impact of importing produce.
Industrial Processes: Excess heat can be used to improve the efficiency of industrial processes such as refining, chemical production, and metal fabrication, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.
Power Generation: Excess heat can be used to generate electricity through the use of thermoelectric power generation, providing a more sustainable alternative to traditional power generation methods.
Hydroponic Systems: Excess heat can be used to regulate the temperature in hydroponic systems, allowing for year-round production of crops in controlled environments.
To implement these solutions, excess heat from data centers can be captured and transferred through a heat exchanger system to the desired application. The heat exchanger can use a fluid, such as water or glycol, to transfer the heat, which can then be used to heat buildings, water, or other systems. Additionally, the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydropower, further increase the sustainability and efficiency of these solutions.