Railway station trials solar-thermal for DHW

Stokvis, DHW, solar thermal, renewable energy

This solar-thermal installation at Birmingham International railway station is being assessed as a potential pilot for a wider roll out of renewable energy across facilities operated by Network Rail and train operator Virgin trains. The installation comprises 10 evacuated-tube collectors and pre-heats incoming mains water at a typical 10°C to around 35°C, although it is expected to reach 55 to 65°C in high summer.

The collectors have a net absorber area of 10.69 m2. The installation also includes a Stokvis Solar Bloc Maxi pump station and a Stokvis Resol BX Plus differential-pressure controller that provides up to eight sensor inputs.

The solar fluid in the system is circulated to a large-surface-area coil in a 1000 l stainless-steel thermal storage vessel that provides pre-heat for the DHW. The system serves the station’s toilets and various shops and eateries around the main concourse.

The storage vessel supplies two existing gas-fired water heaters that increase the temperature to 60°C.

A heat meter is enabling the client to assess the benefit of the system and the payment possible under the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

For more information on this story, click here: January 2016, 134
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