Heat Pump Project Cost Compared by Heat Source

Large-Scale Wastewater Source Heat Pumps Have Considerable Market Potential

We at the Sewer Thermal Energy Network are frequently asked how much a wastewater heat recycling system costs compared to other low carbon options. The answer is that every project is unique and so generalizations are difficult to make. However, the chart below demonstrates the results of research done in Germany on investment costs for large-scale heat pump projects.

The cost of wastewater source heat pump projects are shown as being in the lowest three cost options. The bars indicate the total unit cost of investment needed to build the system, with six components of the total cost indicated by color. Although the cost of wastewater heat and air source heat pump projects are similar, the continuing efficiency of wastewater heat pumps are far superior, making them less expensive to operate.

Saving Tax Dollars by Rethinking Wastewater Management 

So, in this research example, it is clear that wastewater source heat pump projects are extremely good value. The Sewer Thermal Energy Network (STEN) is a member supported network that provides advocacy, education, information dissemination, capacity building, and networking opportunities for cities, municipalities, and wastewater utilities as well as other interested entities in the use of freely available heat in sewage for heating and cooling for the built environment, from a single building to a whole district. We invite you to contact us to begin a conversation that will give you the answers you need.

Impact of the Heat Source & System Components on Investment Costs of Large Scale Heat Pump Projects