Maximum Efficiency Through Intelligent Planning
A heat pump in a commercial building can be more than just a technical solution—it can become the centerpiece of a sustainable, economical, and future-oriented business location. This is demonstrated by the MEFA production and logistics center, built in 2017 in Kupferzell, Baden-Württemberg.
All energy required for heating, cooling, and domestic hot water is sourced entirely from renewable resources. Through precise planning and system design, this project achieves outstanding energy efficiency and economic performance while creating a comfortable working environment for all employees. By intelligently linking the heat and power sectors, this environmentally responsible production site makes a significant contribution to the energy transition.
“The heat pumps have been operating continuously since 2018 with an annual performance factor of nearly seven. Cooling generation even achieves a COP of over nine.”
Peter Kömmelt, Technical Director
Diverse Requirements
With a built-up area of 13,000 square meters and a substantial cooling demand for machinery, server rooms, and office cooling, this commercial project placed high demands on the building’s energy supply. The entire heating and cooling requirement—exceeding 1.5 million kilowatt-hours—is covered monovalently and entirely by three WATERKOTTE heat pumps from the Industrial Line EcoTouch series.
In the production halls, concrete core activation serves as the heat sink, requiring a supply temperature of no more than 30 °C at any time. In the office areas, underfloor heating ensures comfortable heating and cooling conditions.
Intelligent Source Management
Reliable and efficient energy supply for the production site—with both office and manufacturing areas—has been achieved through a combination of innovative technologies and intelligent source management. This is particularly significant, as a 65 m³ ice storage system, 900 m² of solar absorbers, and 3,000 m² of ground absorbers together form the energy source.
Of special interest is the integrated active and passive cooling concept. In addition to the heat pump, the system comprises two heating storage units and a separate cooling storage unit. Intelligent source management enables simultaneous heating and cooling with minimal energy input: the cooling storage unit serves as the source, while the temperature level is reduced through heat pump operation. The resulting cooling capacity is generated as a natural by-product of the heat produced for heating and domestic hot water. This results in an optimal system COP and double the level of comfort.
Optimal Coverage of Heating Loads
The successful use of heat pumps in commercial buildings can also be achieved through the combined operation of multiple units to cover heating loads. At MEFA, heating and cooling demands are met by three WATERKOTTE heat pumps from the Industrial Line EcoTouch 5240T series, each operating within different performance ranges.
An annual performance factor of nearly 7, combined with an impressive heating capacity of 550 kW and a cooling capacity of approximately 400 kW, clearly demonstrates the system’s efficiency. In every case, forward-looking system planning and intelligent WATERKOTTE control technology are decisive factors for success.
A Workplace with a Feel-Good Climate
The new building clearly demonstrates that modern energy technology does more than supply buildings—it creates quality of life.
For employees in logistics, production, and office areas, the heat pump system delivers noticeable comfort in everyday working life. This is achieved through a consistently pleasant indoor climate, free from drafts or abrupt temperature fluctuations. Office staff in particular benefit from underfloor heating and comfortable cooling during the summer months.
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