Ystad Energi AB – Ystad, Sweden (3 x 250 kW)
Background
Ystad Energi AB owns the district heating plant in Ystad, which produces 100% renewable district heating. The plant’s two main boilers are rated at 10 MW each and are primarily fueled by chipped branches and tops left over from forestry operations. To reduce dependence on electricity supply from the grid—where capacity shortages have become an increasingly common issue—Ystad Energi decided to invest in a total of three ORC turbines. Each of the two 10 MW boilers will be equipped with an ORC turbine, and a third turbine will be connected to a 5 MW boiler.
Our solution
Againity delivered three automated ORC systems with a combined maximum electrical capacity of 750 kW. The ORC systems generate electricity from the hot water of the heating boilers. Once all three ORC units are installed, they are expected to produce a total of 3,220 MWh annually, corresponding to emission reductions of 2,900 tonnes of CO₂ equivalents when replacing European marginal electricity. Ystad Energi has signed a service agreement with Againity to ensure long lifetime, minimal maintenance, and optimized electricity production.
Owner: Ystad Energi AB
Location: Ystad, Sweden
Existing boilers: 2 × 10 MW, 1 × 5 MW
Fuel: Wood chips
Total heat production after flue gas condenser: 110 GWh/year
Boiler circuit temperature: 140 °C
District heating return temperature after flue gas condenser: 55 °C
Total installed capacity: 3 × ORC: 3 × 250 kW
3 quick questions for Vinko Culjak, district heating manager at Ystad Energi
What was the reason for investing in an ORC turbine?
For us, it was important that the investment would be both sustainable and profitable. Solar panels have received a lot of attention, but when looking at the investment per kWh, an ORC turbine made more sense financially. We also face challenges related to grid capacity, where combined heat and power becomes important. Every small contribution adds up in the end.
What made you confident in choosing Againity?
I would say the technology itself and its simplicity. With few moving parts, there is not much that can go wrong. It is simple and robust.
What would you like to highlight to other district heating companies?
That you can have your own local, environmentally friendly electricity production from hot water boilers while also reducing the load on the electricity grid. I would also highlight the simplicity and robustness—that was why we chose you.