How Wioniq enhanced Öresundskraft's district heating monitoring system.

Modernizing district heating monitoring for efficiency and savings.

Background
Öresundskraft, a prominent energy company in Sweden, oversees the maintenance and operation of district heating in Helsingborg. The company operates a network with 55 kilometers of asbestos cement pipes that require constant monitoring to prevent costly damage. In a major push to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs, Öresundskraft partnered with Wioniq to deploy smart sensors across their network. This initiative is expected to save hundreds of millions in repair costs.

Preventing expensive replacements and enhancing monitoring efficiency.

Öresundskraft's primary challenge was the high cost of replacing old pipes due to undetected issues. The company aimed to implement technology that could help detect problems early, preventing the need for complete replacements of their asbestos cement pipes. By identifying irregularities early, Öresundskraft sought to maximize the lifespan of their infrastructure while avoiding expensive repairs.

Smart sensor technology for real-time monitoring

Adaptations
Wioniq provided Öresundskraft with an innovative, non-stationary sensor unit that measures water presence, water levels, temperature, and humidity within chambers. The solution was designed to withstand the harsh environmental conditions, including high humidity, without rusting or degrading. A total of 900 units were deployed across Öresundskraft's district heating network, ensuring continuous and accurate monitoring.

Collaborations
Wioniq's expertise in providing effective sensor solutions, coupled with Öresundskraft's detailed technical requirements, led to a successful collaboration. The sensors are designed to deliver real-time data, enabling Öresundskraft to track system performance and detect anomalies before they become costly problems.

Immediate and long-term benefits of the monitoring solution.

By integrating Wioniq's sensor technology, Öresundskraft is now better equipped to monitor its district heating network and prevent issues that could result in costly repairs. In the short term, the solution reduces the risk of pipe failure and optimizes operations, and in the long term, the company expects substantial savings on infrastructure replacement. The 900 sensors, expected to be fully installed by the end of 2025, are designed to last for at least 10 years, with a target of up to 20 years.

Overcoming harsh environmental conditions
The sensors had to be designed to withstand the harsh conditions within Öresundskraft's district heating network, especially the high humidity levels. This requirement posed a challenge, but the Wioniq team successfully developed and deployed the right solution, meeting Öresundskraft's needs while ensuring the sensors' longevity.

Cost savings and enhanced operational efficiency
As Öresundskraft moves forward with the project, they are now better positioned to extend the lifespan of their district heating infrastructure. The success of this initiative reinforces Wioniq's role in helping utilities optimize operations and reduce costs, marking a key milestone in improving energy efficiency and sustainability in the industry.