Danish Crown, a cooperative of 5,620 Danish farmers, is the world’s largest pork exporter and Europe’s leading meat processor. As part of its 2050 net-zero target, the company is committed to optimizing energy consumption and reducing waste in its production. The connection of its Blans facility to a district heating network marks a crucial step towards these sustainability goals.
Anchor Loads: The Foundation of Successful Heat Networks
Buildings with high, steady heat demand—known as anchor loads—are vital for the viability of district heating networks. These facilities ensure stable heat use, allowing for efficient network operation. In this case, the Danish Crown abattoir acts as the anchor load, providing the network with a consistent income stream. This stability not only supports initial investments but also enables the expansion of the network to smaller users in nearby areas, making district heating more accessible and cost-effective for the community.
Extending District Heating to Nearby Villages
Danish Crown’s investment in the Blans facility has enabled three nearby villages— Blans, Ullerup, and Avnbøl—to connect to the Sønderborg Varme district heating network, reducing their dependence on gas. Sønderborg Varme, serving approximately 16,300 homes with hot water and heating in Southern Denmark, utilizes diverse heat sources, including waste incineration, biomass, solar and wind parks, and cogeneration plants. This diverse energy mix allows the network to oLer aLordable, low-carbon heating to its customers.
The average cost of heating from Sønderborg Varme’s network is around £1,571 annually (£131 per month) for an average house (130 m²) and £1,227 annually (£102 per month) for a standard apartment (75 m²).
Overcoming Cost Barriers
Previously, extending district heating to Ullerup and Avnbøl required a supplemental charge of £336.65 per year for residents due to the costs of new infrastructure, such as transmission pipes and connections. Danish Crown’s investment in the Blans abattoir has resolved this challenge, enabling the connection of these villages without extra costs for residents. The investment of nearly £280,000 ensures that Blans, Ullerup, and Avnbøl can now access district heating at the same rates as other network users.
A Partnership for the Future
The agreement between Danish Crown and Sønderborg Varme has been met with enthusiasm. Rasmus Aadal, Senior Vice President at Danish Crown, emphasized the dual benefits of reducing CO2 emissions at the Blans facility while supporting the local community. “This is a vital step towards our goal of a 42% CO2 reduction by 2030,” he noted.
Erik Wolff, Director of Sønderborg Varme, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the opportunity to provide sustainable, affordable heating to previously unreachable households. “Our goal is to offer the cheapest and most sustainable heating to our customers, and this partnership helps us achieve that,” said Wolff.
A Vision for Reduced Emissions
The Blans abattoir, Danish Crown’s second-largest in Denmark, is set to halve its natural gas use once connected to district heating in 2027. This transition will significantly contribute to the company’s goal of a 42% CO2 reduction between 2020 and 2030.
While Danish Crown currently does not supply excess industrial heat from the Blans facility to Sønderborg Varme, the district heating company remains optimistic about future opportunities for collaboration.