Energy upgrading
Thermal power plant upgrading of a super condominium
Thermal power plant upgrading: the vacuum solar thermal system
Orbyta Engineering carried out an upgrade of the thermal power plant serving the super condominium “Le Rondini,” consisting of 36 residential units. The main objective of the project was to improve the energy efficiency of the facility, reduce costs related to domestic hot water (DHW) consumption, and promote the use of sustainable energy.
The implemented solution involves replacing the existing heat generator and installing a vacuum-type solar thermal system, an advanced technology that can maximize energy efficiency even in unfavorable weather conditions.
Vacuum solar thermal system: the advantages
To optimize DHW production in the summer months, a vacuum solar thermal system was designed. This technology offers superior performance compared with conventional collectors, with numerous advantages:
- High efficiency: Vacuum panels absorb heat efficiently even on cloudy days or in low temperatures.
- Sustainable production: The system will produce over 000 liters of hot water per year, covering 31% of the condominium’s total needs with free and clean solar energy.
- Operation down to -25°C: Thanks to glycol-free technology, the system is able to operate even in extremely cold conditions without requiring periodic maintenance for the heat transfer fluid.
The installed solar thermal system uses a “bucket” emptying system, an innovative technology that replaces traditional differential control systems. This solution allows high temperatures to be reached quickly, improving system efficiency and reducing the waiting time for DHW production.
Cost and benefit analysis
The design of the system was based on a detailed analysis of the historicity of summer consumption. The goal was to ensure the maximum possible coverage of DHW needs in the summer months while maintaining a balance between initial costs and energy benefits.
With this solution, the super condominium will be able to significantly reduce gas consumption, saving on energy costs and reducing environmental impact.
The redevelopment of “Le Rondini” thermal power plant is a concrete example of how advanced technologies can improve energy efficiency and promote sustainability. Thanks to the vacuum solar thermal system, the condominium will benefit from significant cost reductions, a smaller environmental footprint, and an innovative and durable system without the need for costly maintenance.