Gothaer Stadtwerke ENERGIE Puts iKWK Plant into Operation

On 13 August, Gothaer Stadtwerke ENERGIE officially commissioned its new combined heat and power plant (iKWK plant) at the Ost heating plant in Gotha-Siebleben in the presence of invited guests. The plant integrates three technologies — a combined heat and power unit (CHP), an air-source heat pump, and a power-to-heat unit — marking a significant step towards climate-neutral heat supply for Gotha: efficient, economical, and produced locally.

Knut Kreuch, Mayor of the City of Gotha, expressed his admiration for the plant’s cutting-edge technology: “With this flagship project, our municipal utility is advancing the local heat transition in Gotha and demonstrating that climate protection and public service provision go hand in hand.”

Sven Anders, Managing Director of Gothaer Stadtwerke ENERGIE, emphasized: “With our first renewable heat source, we are living up to our commitment to take responsibility for the region and actively shape the heat transition.”

Three Technologies – One Climate Goal

The iKWK plant combines the CHP unit, the air-source heat pump, and the power-to-heat system in a modular design. While the power-to-heat unit generates heat using surplus electricity from renewable sources, the air-source heat pump harnesses ambient air temperature for heat production. The gas-fired CHP unit, with a thermal output of 2.2 megawatts, can efficiently cover part of the peak load during the heating season. This technological trio will reduce CO₂ emissions by around 230 tonnes per year and supply 400 households with climate-friendly heat.

Another advantage: the flexible use of different energy sources ensures better utilization of renewables, reduced gas consumption, and mitigation of price fluctuations on energy markets. “This will also have an impact on our district heating prices,” says Sven Anders.

A Cornerstone of the Local Heat Transition

Built within 16 months, the plant is part of a comprehensive investment program by the utility. Around €16 million has been earmarked for the expansion and modernization of heating plants alone — €5.2 million of which was invested specifically in the iKWK plant. At the West heating plant, engines were replaced last year at a cost of around €5 million. “This year we are also investing in a large heat storage unit,” reports Sven Anders.

The plant is a key component of the transformation plan for decarbonizing Gotha’s district heating. This plan outlines the technologies to be used in future for climate-friendly heat generation.

Climate-Neutral Heat by 2045

With the commissioning of the iKWK plant, Gothaer Stadtwerke ENERGIE underscores its strategic direction. By 2045, 100% of district heating is to be produced climate-neutrally. “We act reliably and with a focus on the future to ensure that Gotha remains a livable city tomorrow,” emphasizes Sven Anders.

With the new plant concept in Siebleben, the utility shows how local energy providers can drive the energy transition on the ground — with innovative projects, regional value creation, and a clear goal for Gotha: sustainable heat for all.