Small country, great technology: Tiense Suikerraffinaderij is taking a new step in sustainable industrial innovation with the introduction of a unique industrial heat pump. The system increases energy efficiency at the Tienen plant and promotes the circular economy. It also reduces dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to the decarbonisation of the sector.
3,000 tonnes less CO₂ per year
Sugar will from now on be produced in a more sustainable way. The sugar producer's revolutionary heat pump reduces dependence on fossil fuels and optimises energy efficiency.
The system utilizes vacuum steam from the evaporation installation, typically ranging between 75°C and 92°C, as a heat source to generate steam at approximately 138°C. This steam is then used to concentrate sugar in the evaporators.
The heat pump meets 5 percent of the factory’s total energy demand. The technology is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 3000 to 3500 tons annually, significantly lowering the plant’s energy costs.
A breakthrough in industrial heat processing
The heat pump makes it possible to raise industrial waste heat to temperatures between 135°C and 160°C—a significant advancement compared to traditional heat pumps, which are usually limited to 95°C.
As a result, Tiense Suikerraffinaderij can efficiently reuse waste heat from the production process and take a major step towards the decarbonization of sugar refining.
The heat pump generates three to five times more heat than the electrical energy it consumes, resulting in significant energy savings.
Jan Ingels, Director of Factories at Tiense Suikerraffinaderij, emphasizes: “The installation of this heat pump is an important step towards our ambition of reducing our CO2 emissions to zero by 2050. This project underscores our commitment to sustainability and is a strategic investment in a green future for our company and communities.”
Continuing to accelerate the green transition
The industrial heat pump is just one of many initiatives through which Tiense Suikerraffinaderij is reducing its ecological footprint. Cooperation with companies, governments and knowledge institutions remains crucial to further develop and apply innovative technologies.
In addition, the refinery continues to invest in environmentally friendly production methods. For instance, its state-of-the-art diffusion tower contributes to more sustainable sugar production through advanced water and energy-saving technologies.
Official inauguration with Vice Minister President of the Flemish government
The inauguration took place in the presence of Matthias Diependaele, Minister President of the Flemish Government: “The agri-food sector is one of the strategic sectors of our Flemish economy. Such investments not only strengthen the anchoring of the food industry in Flanders but also demonstrate a clear long-term vision for decarbonization and energy efficiency at Tiense Suikerraffinaderij, maintaining the balance between economy and ecology. By investing in advanced technologies like this high-temperature heat pump, the company is now among the global pioneers. This is something we in Flanders can be truly proud of.”