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Through a unique development project, energy self-sufficiency has improved in Otaniemi. The local energy solution, which is low-emission and supports energy self-sufficiency, provides buildings with heating, hot water, and cooling through large air-water heat pumps. At the same time, waste heat generated from cooling the campus buildings can be recycled, which improves the energy production efficiency. 

Currently, the local energy system, which covers nine properties, has been operating on Otaniemi campus for around four years. The Otaniemi local energy system was the first of its kind implemented in Finland, and similar solutions are probably not in use even internationally. 

The solution is based on combining local production with the district heating system, as well as low-temperature and cold networks. The self-sufficiency rate of production is 70–90 percent, and if necessary, consumption peaks are covered with renewable district heating.

Explore the energy solution with an animation

The animation below details the properties connected to the solution and its operating principles. In addition, the animation includes almost real-time consumption and production data.

'The very low-emission energy solution utilising waste heat is a natural extension of Aalto University’s approach to pursuing energy solutions that support sustainability targets while taking into account the special needs of each development target,' explains Ville Jokela, Managing Director of Aalto University Campus & Real Estate.

Fortum is responsible for the project for the full life-cycle of the system – from project development and construction to operation. The goal is to eventually expand the solution to other buildings in the surrounding area.