Helsinki to install world’s largest heat pump in push for carbon neutrality

The Finnish capital is leading the energy transition: by 2026, 30,000 homes will be heated by the largest heat pump in the world, drastically reducing CO2 emissions

©Andrin Winteler / MAN Energy Solutions

Helsinki is getting ready to break records with what will be the world’s largest heat pump, while changing how it heats up. It is an essential part of decarbonizing the Finnish capital’s district heating network: a centralized system which supplies homes and businesses by way of a underground pipe network.

Designed to operate efficiently even in extreme temperatures of -4°F (-20°C), the new heat pump will run on electricity sourced from renewable energy. This aligns with Helsinki’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. The project, commissioned by Finnish energy company Helen Oy, aims to have the facility up and running by the end of 2026.

As Juhani Aaltonen, Vice President of Green Investments at Helen Oy, explains:

“The decarbonization of our heating system is a significant step toward carbon neutrality. When this heat pump becomes operational, it will dramatically reduce the CO2 emissions from heating and provide greater price stability for customers through flexible production.”

Environmental impact and innovative technologies

The Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has granted a subsidy to support the project. German manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions supplied the heat pump, which will operate in conjunction with two 50 MW electric boilers. Together, they will supply heat to around 30,000 households in the Finnish capital, saving about 26,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually.

What makes the project special is the use of CO2 as a refrigerant. Compared to other traditional gases that are harmful to the environment and have quite strict regulations within the EU, carbon dioxide is a more sustainable and safer alternative, even in case of leakage.

Uwe Lauber, CEO of MAN Energy Solutions, underlines:

“Projects in cities like this, integrating climate-neutral technologies, are what will accelerate the energy transition globally.”

At the moment, about 50% of the energy consumed in the European Union is for heating and cooling buildings; more than 70% of that energy is obtained from fossil fuels, with the greatest share from natural gas. Finland is leading the pack in sustainable heating solutions, with nearly half of the energy that went into heating Finnish buildings in 2021 being sourced from renewable sources, even though biomass still played a big role.

This new facility shows that Helsinki is avoiding additional strain on the forestry sector—a fact that was underlined by the competition held in 2021 to exclude biomass from the options for decarbonizing the city’s heating system.

Source: MAN Energy Solutions

Simone Biles’ journey: championing mental health and gymnastics

Rebecca Manzi

Posted on 20/12/2024

Simone Biles with her act of courage to put her mental well-being first has inspired many women to do the same: much more than just a champion

@simonebiles/Instagram

In the last few years, Simone Biles has become an icon, not only because of her incredible performances in gymnastics but also because of the powerful message she sent out regarding mental health. After partial withdrawal from the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games because of an episode of “twisties”, a condition affecting spatial awareness, Biles chose to put her mental health first and by doing so, inspired millions in the process.

The two-year break she took was an essential time for her to review her career and life. “Seeing my therapist every Thursday became a religious act” she said during the Paris 2024 Olympics, when she made an astonishing comeback, winning another individual all-around gold medal. This comeback did not only seal her champion status but also proved one thing: true success embraces the guts to confront one’s limits.

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A post shared by Simone Biles (@simonebiles)

As mentioned, her story has had a deep impact, particularly among women. According to a recent study by Female Quotient and Suzy, more than 60% of American women see Biles as an inspiration to make their mental health a priority.

The burden of guilt when women take time for themselves

Sixty-three percent of respondents reported taking better care of their psychological well-being, while 61% said they feel more open about sharing their struggles. These statistics highlight how open dialogue can break down cultural barriers surrounding mental health.

Guilt over taking time for themselves has been a major factor, especially in the case of many women. However, with Biles’ act of bravery and transparency, self-care is now seen as normal and no longer a weakness but rather a demonstration of strength.

Coupled with Biles, other athletes like Naomi Osaka have fueled this cultural shift-to show the world that speaking about one’s mental health is an act of leadership. For Simone, every medal she wins today carries a larger message: mental health is as important as physical health.

Her example has created a ripple effect that will continue to inspire generations, proving that true success is measured not only by results but also by the well-being achieved along the way.

The article draws upon studies published and recommendations from international institutions and/or experts. We do not make claims in the medical-scientific field and report the facts as they are. Sources are indicated at the end of each article.