Fortum launches Baltics' first district cooling solution in Tartu
Fortum has opened the first district cooling plant and network in Tartu, Estonia. The investment is expected to significantly reduce electricity consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
Energy company Fortum has launched the city of Tartu, Estonia's first district cooling network and plant. Completed in May 2016, the system is also the first of its kind in the Baltic states. The total investment amounted to EUR 5.7 million.
The new 1.6-kilometer district cooling network complements Fortum's existing district heating and electricity production in the area. The cooling plant is located on the banks of the Emajõgi River, enabling the use of river water for cooling and enhancing the system's energy efficiency. Solar panels have also been installed to cover a portion of the plant's own electricity needs.
The district cooling system utilizes the Emajõgi River's water for free cooling from October to April. During warmer periods, efficient chillers are employed. The system also recovers waste heat: heat from district cooling customers is pumped into the district heating network. According to Fortum, this reduces electricity demand by up to 70% compared to traditional local cooling solutions.
Fortum states that the Tartu district cooling system will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 6,000 tons annually, a 70% decrease compared to local solutions. Primary energy consumption is also reduced more than threefold. Additionally, district cooling offers customers space savings by eliminating the need for separate cooling equipment in buildings, while also improving the energy efficiency of the properties.