Lämpövarausjär

Lämpövarausjär is a Finnish term that translates to "heat reserve lake" or "thermal storage lake." It refers to a body of water specifically designed and managed to store thermal energy. These lakes are typically part of larger district heating or cooling systems. The concept involves heating water during periods of low energy demand or when excess heat is available, such as from industrial processes or renewable energy sources like solar thermal collectors. This heated water is then stored in the lake.

When energy demand increases, the stored heat can be extracted from the lake and used to provide heating for buildings or other applications. Lämpövarausjär systems can significantly improve the efficiency of energy distribution and reduce reliance on peak-demand power generation. They are particularly effective in regions with distinct seasonal temperature variations, where there is a clear need for both heating and cooling. The design and operation of these lakes involve considerations such as insulation to minimize heat loss, water circulation systems to maintain uniform temperatures, and robust monitoring to ensure efficient energy management.