Six giant heat pumps provided by Johnson Controls for Zurich heating system

Zurich, the vibrant city of Switzerland, is taking significant strides towards a more sustainable future with the implementation of a new heat pump solution. This project, a collaboration between Johnson Controls and ERZ, is set to provide climate-neutral heat to approximately 15,000 households, starting from 2027.

The heat pump solution, which is part of Zurich's efforts to expand its CO2-free heat supply, is a key pillar in the city's ambitious climate neutrality objective, aiming to be achieved by 2040. The facility, consisting of six high-performance screw compressors, will operate with ammonia, a natural refrigerant with no global warming potential.

Johnson Controls, a leading global provider of energy-efficient solutions, announced the development of this heat pump facility. Richard Lek, President of Johnson Controls EMEA, emphasised the potential of excess heat as a large untapped energy source, stating that it has the potential for companies to reduce costs, increase resilience, and achieve climate goals.

Jürg Bruder, Head of Large Projects at Entsorgung & Recycling Zurich (ERZ), is overseeing the implementation of the project. The heat pump solution supplied by Johnson Controls will utilise low-temperature heat from the flue gases of an existing waste incineration plant.

This project is driving the heat transition forward in Zurich and is one of the city's strategies to achieve climate neutrality by 2040. The expansion of CO2-free heat supply is a crucial step in Zurich's efforts to become a model for sustainable cities worldwide.

While the name of the person coordinating the project for Johnson Controls remains undisclosed, one thing is certain: this project marks an important milestone in Zurich's journey towards a greener and more sustainable future.