Tag: Versorgung

  • Future-oriented heat supply in Zurich’s inner-city neighbourhoods

    Future-oriented heat supply in Zurich’s inner-city neighbourhoods

    In a strategic initiative to decarbonise the energy supply, the city of Zurich is identifying key districts in which the conventional heat supply is to be replaced by sustainable alternatives. Despite the challenge that locally available, renewable energy sources such as heat pumps are not sufficient to meet demand, a comprehensive study has identified possible solutions.

    Concept for densely built-up urban areas
    The Hard, Wiedikon and Sihlfeld-Werd neighbourhoods in particular are the focus of energy planning. These areas, which cover around seven per cent of the city’s settlement area, require an innovative approach due to their dense perimeter block development. The supply concept developed envisages the construction of thermal networks, which will account for around a quarter of the city’s new installations by 2040.

    New combined heat and power plants required
    To cover the calculated heat demand of 282 GWh/year, high-performance heating plants are required, comparable to the capacity of the existing Hagenholz waste incineration plant. Additional boilers are used to cover the peak load, which is particularly necessary on extremely cold days.

    Modular expansion and innovative heat sources
    The concept includes the use of diversified energy sources such as wastewater heat, river water, wood biomass and waste heat from computer centres, which is generated outside the supply area and fed into the neighbourhoods via a new main network. Implementation will be carried out in modular steps, with independent distribution centres being built in a timely manner to ensure that end consumers are connected quickly.

    The planning and implementation of this forward-looking project is now required in order to connect the first properties to the grid early in the 2030s. The replacement of the current 1,500 fossil-fuelled heating systems in these areas will make a decisive contribution to achieving Zurich’s climate targets.

  • New era of healthcare in architectural brilliance

    New era of healthcare in architectural brilliance

    With a history dating back to the 19th century, the Graubünden Cantonal Hospital has established itself as a trusted centre for medical care. The new building is proof of the centre hospital’s commitment to keeping pace with the changing needs of patients.

    The architectural design of the new building is characterised by bright, open spaces that not only create a pleasant environment, but also encourage interaction between medical staff and patients. State-of-the-art operating theatres, diagnostic facilities and outpatient treatment rooms are designed to ensure optimal results and maximum comfort for patients. The architecture reflects the latest standards in hospital planning to meet the most demanding medical requirements.

    The new building has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Modern technologies for energy generation, waste reduction and environmentally friendly materials help to minimise the ecological footprint.

    An integral part of the Graubünden Cantonal Hospital is its highly qualified medical staff, who also work in the new building. Doctors, nurses, therapists and support staff work hand in hand to ensure holistic care at the highest level. The close co-operation between the specialists not only promotes effective treatment, but also the exchange of knowledge and innovations.

  • Solar and heat pump technology companies join forces against the shortage of skilled workers

    Solar and heat pump technology companies join forces against the shortage of skilled workers

    According to a press release , St.Gallisch-Appenzellische Kraftwerke AG ( SAK ) and Heizplan AG from Gams are founding a joint venture for the training of skilled workers. The background is the increasing order situation for photovoltaic systems, for which additional specialist staff is required.

    As a result of the high demand for solar roof systems for single and multi-family houses as well as for commercial properties, customers have to wait longer for the craftsman. SAK and Heizplan want to tackle the growing need for additional skilled workers under a joint company roof. The first positions are to be advertised in the course of the week.

    According to the head of the energy solutions and production divisions at SAK, Adriano Tramèr, who was quoted in the media release, the expansion of photovoltaics can be accelerated together. "By founding the company, we are pooling our strengths and supporting the energy transition in Eastern Switzerland – and thus the energy policy efforts of the Eastern Swiss cantons."