jätelämmö

Jätelämpö, often translated as waste heat, refers to the thermal energy that is released as a byproduct of industrial processes, power generation, or other human activities. This heat is often not utilized and is instead dissipated into the environment, representing a significant loss of potential energy. However, with increasing focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, the recovery and utilization of waste heat have become a priority.

The sources of waste heat are diverse. In industrial settings, it can originate from exhaust gases, cooling water, or residual heat from manufacturing equipment. Power plants generate substantial amounts of waste heat, particularly in thermal power stations. Even data centers, with their cooling systems, produce considerable waste heat.

Recovered waste heat can be used for various purposes. A common application is district heating, where the heat is channeled through underground pipes to warm homes and buildings. It can also be used for industrial process heating, such as drying or preheating materials, thereby reducing the need for primary energy sources. In some cases, waste heat can be converted back into electricity through technologies like Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs).

Implementing waste heat recovery systems offers numerous benefits. It enhances energy efficiency, leading to reduced fuel consumption and lower operational costs. Environmentally, it contributes to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions by lessening the demand for fossil fuels. Furthermore, it can improve the overall sustainability of industrial operations and urban energy systems. The economic viability of waste heat recovery depends on factors such as the temperature and quantity of the waste heat, the distance to potential users, and the cost of alternative energy sources.