Energy rehaul of the Specialist Hospital

Scope

The energy renovation project of the Special Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation in Krapinske Toplice included the reconstruction of the boiler house, main heating station, heating substations and fan-engine rooms, the construction of a new transformer station, the implementation of a central monitoring and control system (CNUS) and the construction of a photovoltaic power plant. The work included mechanical, electrical and civil engineering parts at several locations within the active hospital complex, with a firm EU-mandated project deadline.

The heating system was based on older-generation gas hot water and steam boilers. The site's geothermal potential was not taken into consideration. The energy infrastructure was partially outdated, and the control systems were not integrated. Part of the infrastructure was damaged in the earthquake, requiring simultaneous rehabilitation and modernisation.

Approach

Outdated gas boilers were replaced with highly efficient condensing units, and geothermal water/water heat pumps were installed as the primary source of heat energy, using the geothermal potential of the location for heating rooms, air conditioning and preparation of domestic hot water. The working fluid in the pumps is environmentally friendly freon R134A. The condensing boilers were retained as a highly efficient system reserve.

A new substation with two transformers was built, as well as a new communication network between the facilities that connects all stations into a single heating and ventilation system under a central monitoring and control system (CNUS). A photovoltaic power plant was built as an additional renewable energy source.

Each intervention was planned in phases, with precisely coordinated switching of the old and new systems. The hospital performed its activities without interruption throughout the duration of the works, with a continuous supply of heat and electricity.

The hospital complex received a modern energy system in which geothermal energy is the primary source of heat, with a highly efficient condensing reserve and centralized real-time monitoring. Energy efficiency, security of supply and the share of renewable energy sources in the total consumption of the complex have increased.