Techno-economic evaluation: Industrial waste heat export using heat pumps
Objective/short description
This thesis aims to evaluate technical- and economic feasibility of exporting industrial waste heat from a process industry to the local district heating network by using high temperature heat pumps (HTHPs). The student will analyze techno-economic performance, safety aspects and practical implications related to different natural refrigerants. The thesis will be conducted in collaborations with a world leading Gypsum board manufacturing company.
Background
The industrial sector accounts for a significant share of global energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, with large amounts of heat released as waste during manufacturing processes. Therefore, recovering this industrial waste heat represents a major opportunity to improve overall energy efficiency and meet global sustainability goals. However, the integration of waste heat into existing energy systems, such as district heating networks, often faces technical and economic challenges related to temperature levels, heat quality, and system compatibility.
District heating networks are transitioning toward low-carbon and more flexible heat sources, including renewable and recovered heat. A concern in many industrial processes is that the waste heat temperature is lower than what district heating systems require. This temperature mismatch can be effectively addressed through the use of HTHPs, which can upgrade waste heat to suitable supply temperatures. Technological advancements and demand for environmentally friendly refrigerants have made natural refrigerants – such as ammonia, carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons – has gained increased interest, but also entails security and cost requirements.
In this context, the gypsum board manufacturing process serves as a promising case for industrial waste heat recovery, by using hot exhaust air. As one of the most difficult industries to decarbonize, heat recovery through heat export is a promising solution for both reduced emissions and increased economic profitability.
Task description
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Review and summarize existing studies on industrial waste heat export to district heating networks, using heat pumps.
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Identify existing suppliers of such heat pumps solutions.
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Technical feasibility of different natural refrigerants based on the waste heat (source) temperature and district heating (supply) temperature.
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Technological evaluation of the heat pump performance and practical implication related to the selection of different refrigerants, such as safety and other auxiliary systems.
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Techno-economic modeling of the heat pump solution.
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Scenario/Sensitivity analysis of economic input parameters.
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Propose optimal selection of refrigerant and heat pump design.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this thesis project, the student will be able to:
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Identify and analyze technical issues related to waste heat export in process industry
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Select and assess different HTHP solutions applicable to process industry and district heating applications
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Perform technical, environmental, and economic assessments, including energy savings, CO₂ reduction, investment cost, and payback time calculations.
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Communicate complex technical findings effectively through structured reports and presentations tailored to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Duration
Starting in January 2026
Supervisors/Examiner
