In recent years, thermal energy has become one of the pillars for the energy transformation of productive sectors and cities. Its ability to harness renewable resources and waste heat It is playing a key role in reducing fossil fuel consumption and lowering direct CO2 emissions. Companies and institutions from different countries are increasingly investing in projects that employ thermal solutions for both industrial processes and building air conditioning, seeking energy efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Thanks to technological modernization and the integration of new renewable sources, Thermal energy is showing high potential to meet heating and industrial process needs.From initiatives that recover wasted industrial heat, to urban heat networks and biomass use, to cogeneration with biogas, there are increasing examples of how this type of energy is being revalued in real-life scenarios.
Urban heat networks and efficiency in public buildings
The use of heating infrastructures to air-condition municipal buildings It is now a tangible reality. In Spain, the Ávila City Council has awarded DH Eco Energías the contract to supply thermal energy through a heating network for the San Antonio sports hall. hot water and heating more efficiently, with a view to extending the service to other public buildings. This approach reinforces sustainability and is complemented by recent improvement works at the facilities, reflecting how local governments are moving toward more responsible and modern energy models.
Biomass and biogas: giving new life to agricultural and industrial waste
Several energy companies are taking a step forward in the energy recovery from waste. Neoelectra, together with international partners, has acquired the Cap Vert Bioénergies Nouzilly methanation plant in France, where organic matter from agriculture and livestock is transformed into biogas, which is then used to generate electricity and heat. Part of the thermal energy produced It is used to heat INRAE buildings, while the electricity supplies the national grid.
Furthermore, Neoelectra continues to expand its network of biogas and biomass facilities, managing other plants in Spain and France. This policy reinforces the local sustainability and energy efficiency, taking advantage of nearby resources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. It is a clear example of how the renewable thermal energy It is beginning to replace more polluting systems and to integrate into an increasingly green industrial fabric.
Biomass cogeneration is also a key player in projects such as the one being developed by Magnon Green Energy in conjunction with Eman Ingeniería at the Mahou San Miguel factory in Alovera. By installing two biomass boilers, 85 GWh of renewable thermal energy will be supplied annually and will achieve a reduction of up to 95% in direct CO2 emissions at the plant. This is a significant step forward for the decarbonization of the Spanish food industry, backed by significant financial investment and institutional support.
Industrial heat recovery: the case of Hamburg
The use of waste heat from industrial processes This is another line of expansion, with an immediate impact on urban energy efficiency. The Aurubis copper smelter in Hamburg has transformed what was previously wasted heat during its refining process into a useful source for the district heating network. This project, developed in conjunction with Enercity Contracting, has involved an investment of over €20 million, enabling home heating in Hafencity East and reducing river water consumption for industrial cooling.
Its success lies in the public-private partnership and the modernization of the plant to efficiently recover, store, and distribute the generated heat. This is a pioneering initiative that could be adapted to other urban centers with industries capable of transferring their surplus heat. Furthermore, the system has a gas boiler that guarantees service continuity, reinforcing energy security throughout the year.
Innovation and future in thermal energy
The bet for renewable thermal energy and the use of local resources continues to gain recognition in the industry and in urban planning. Thanks to technological innovation, many proven solutions can be replicated elsewhere, adapting to the specific circumstances of each sector or city.
From heat networks in sports centers and municipal buildings, through biogas plants that transform waste into useful energy, to heat recovery in large industries, the thermal energy It is consolidating its position as a fundamental tool in the strategy for reducing emissions and energy efficiency. Although economic and integration challenges persist, current results show an optimistic outlook regarding its role in changing the energy model.
The growing development of these systems reflects a clear trend towards intelligent use of available resources and the commitment of industry, administrations, and local authorities to the energy transition. With the right push, renewable thermal energy will gain ground in the energy mix to meet key heating and industrial process needs in a more sustainable and efficient manner.
