Tailored energy solutions for maximum efficiency
Since 2023, the senior center has held the ÖKOPROFIT certification. This renowned environmental management program honors businesses for innovative ecological protection and economic efficiency approaches. For this facility, climate protection is not a trend but a responsibility to future generations.
To develop a sustainable energy concept, the senior center relied on the expertise of Hubert Niewels GmbH, a leader in «technical building equipment.» Together with ecocoach, they implemented a system that integrates cutting-edge technology to ensure a reliable energy supply while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
System components in detail
Cogeneration plants (CHPs): Two natural gas CHPs from the Danish EC POWER XGRI series deliver 20 kW of thermal power and 9 kW of electrical power each. These units are the heart of the energy system, enabling an efficient combination of electricity and heat generation.
Photovoltaic systems: Multiple PV systems were installed on the senior center’s intricate rooftops, providing a peak capacity of 99 kWp since March 2024. The thoughtful design ensures that the systems blend harmoniously with the historic townscape.
Battery storage and energy management system: The 65-kWh battery storage system optimises energy flows, combined with ecocoach’s ecoEnergyCoach. Excess solar power is stored and used as needed, marking a significant step toward energy autonomy.
Maximum energy security with smart energy management
A key element of this solution is ecocoach’s innovative energy management system, which ensures optimal coordination of all components—from the cogeneration plants to the PV systems and battery storage.
- Backup grid formation:
In a power outage, the ecocoach system automatically takes over and switches the CHPs from heat-led to electricity-led generation. - PV integration:
The inverters of the photovoltaic systems can restart during emergency operations, allowing solar power to feed into the backup grid. - Emergency operation:
Power supply is maintained as long as the PV systems or CHPs provide energy or the battery storage is sufficiently charged. This feature ensures safety for residents and caregivers.
«The collaboration with ecocoach has shown us how innovative technologies can create real value. Thanks to the energy management system, we can reduce our carbon footprint and ensure reliable energy supply.»
- CARITAS Elderly Care ERZBISTUM PADERBORN GMBH
Ecological and conomically attractive
The energy solution at Senior Center St. Antonius combines climate protection with economic benefits. Using PV systems, cogeneration plants, and a battery storage system, CO₂ emissions are significantly reduced while operating costs decrease.
Advantages at a Glance:
- Climate protection:Combining self-consumption with advanced technology reduces the carbon footprint sustainably.
- Energy efficiency: Intelligent control minimises energy losses and optimises self-consumption.
- Cost-effectiveness: Government subsidies and savings make the system financially viable in the long term.
- Energy security:Smart solutions ensure operations even during power outages.
This combination proves that sustainability can be economically attractive.
Partnership with Niewels: a strong team
Hubert Niewels GmbH is renowned for its tailored solutions in building technology. Several care facilities under Caritas Altenhilfe in Erzbistum Paderborn GmbH have been equipped with similar systems to ensure a sustainable energy supply.
At its headquarters in Bad Lippspringe, a central control station monitors all systems. Through the ecocoach cloud, the Niewels team can remotely manage the systems, identify issues early, and ensure optimal efficiency.
«Working with ecocoach is a pleasure. The software provides optimal control and monitoring, elevating our projects to the next level.»
- Matthias stolte, HUBERT NIEWELS ENERGIE GMBH
Are you interested in a guided tour on-site?
Then contact us today to arrange a viewing appointment with an ecocoach specialist.