Exploring the Economic and Ecological Impact of Electricity Reduction Measures in Ice Rinks: A Bachelor Thesis Overview
- Simon Bolteau
- 13 mars 2024
- 2 min läsning
In a recent Bachelor Thesis conducted at the University of Applied Sciences Graubünden, Switzerland, the economic and ecological ramifications of implementing electricity reduction measures in ice rinks were meticulously investigated. Titled "Measures for Electricity Reduction in Ice Rinks: Economic and Ecological Impacts," this thesis delved into the practical strategies aimed at mitigating energy consumption and its environmental footprint while considering the financial implications for ice rink operators.
Authored by Gianni Hertner, a Bachelor of Science student in Business Administration with a specialization in Entrepreneurship, this thesis explores the pressing need for sustainable practices in the ice rink industry. The study's primary focus was to identify and analyze various measures that could effectively reduce electricity usage in ice rinks without compromising operational efficiency or ice quality.
Throughout his research journey, Hertner received support from Jörgen Rogstam and EKA in the subject matter of energy consumption and utilization in ice rinks.
The research highlights four key areas crucial for sustainability in ice rinks: the implementation of natural refrigerants, heat recovery systems, energy-efficient practices, and the integration of renewable energy sources. By thoroughly examining each aspect and conducting a detailed analysis, the thesis provides actionable recommendations for immediate implementation, as well as long-term strategies to enhance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Moreover, the thesis underscores the economic viability of these measures, emphasizing potential cost savings and long-term benefits for ice rink operators. By switching to renewable energy sources, optimizing operational practices, and investing in innovative technologies like CO2 refrigeration machines, ice rinks can significantly reduce their environmental impact while improving their bottom line.
This Bachelor Thesis serves as a valuable resource for ice rink operators, policymakers, and stakeholders interested in fostering sustainability within the industry. With practical insights and evidence-based recommendations, it offers a roadmap for achieving energy efficiency goals while advancing environmental stewardship in ice rink operations.
4 Keys Takeaways - Recommandations for Action
Implementation of Immediate Measures
It is important to implement immediate measures to adjust the ice thickness, ice temperature, and operating times of the ventilation/dehumidification in the ice rink. Operators and the ice master should jointly be responsible for monitoring and adjusting the optimal ice thickness and temperature based on external environmental factors. Additionally, the operating times of the ventilation and dehumidification systems should be controlled to operate only when necessary. This recommendation is supported by studies showing that targeted adjustment of these parameters can lead to energy savings without compromising ice quality.
Switching the Power Mix
It is strongly recommended to switch the power mix for operating the ice rink to renewable energy sources. Operators should engage with local energy providers to aim for a switch to the basic supply. This measure will not only reduce costs but also significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. The results indicate that transitioning to the basic supply or to renewable energies is an environmentally friendly and economically viable option.
Replacement of the Existing Refrigeration Machine
It is strongly recommended to replace the existing refrigeration machine in the ice rink with a CO2 refrigeration machine with integrated heat recovery. It should be noted that the funding under the "Green Deal" action plan will only be doubled until the end of 2024. The introduction of this technology should be done in close collaboration with energy experts and manufacturers. Studies show that CO2 refrigeration machines have high energy efficiency and represent a sustainable solution to reduce energy consumption while recovering heat for the ice rink's own use.
Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources and Synergies
It is advisable to consider renewable energy sources such as a photovoltaic system and to utilize synergies to make efficient use of the generated waste heat. This requires close collaboration between ice rink operators and energy experts. The installation of a photovoltaic system enables the use of clean energy and can also provide some of the energy for the refrigeration machine. Furthermore, the possibility should be explored to deliver the generated waste heat to other energy-intensive buildings or sports facilities in close proximity. Studies show that the combination of renewable energy sources and efficient use of waste heat can lead to increased yields or savings, thereby reducing overall environmental impact.
About the author
Gianni Hertner, currently a Consultant for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) at the Graubündner Kantonalbank, holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons. Besides his professional pursuits, he is also an avid ice hockey player for HC Prättigau-Herrschaft in the SwissDiv1 league during the 2023/2024 season. His academic background in business economics aligns with his commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by his thesis on electricity reduction measures in ice rinks.
For further details and in-depth insights, the full thesis is available in German:
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