Jena. 02.10.2026 – Stadtwerke Energie Jena-Pößneck are refining their plans to utilize wastewater heat for the municipal heating network. The focus is on the ANIKA project (“Abwärmenutzung mittels integrierter Kläranlage” – Waste heat utilization via integrated sewage treatment plant).
- Project: ANIKA (Waste heat utilization via integrated sewage treatment plant)
- Location: Central sewage treatment plant Jena-Zwätzen
- Technology: Large-scale heat pump (approx. 20 MW), Power-to-Heat system, heat storage
- Timeline: Investment decision 2027, start of construction 2028, commissioning 2030
Technical concept for the energy center
A detailed technical concept is now available for the project at the Jena-Zwätzen sewage treatment plant site. In addition to a large-scale heat pump capacity of approximately 20 megawatts, a Power-to-Heat system and a heat storage unit are planned. The system is designed to utilize treated wastewater for energy purposes and raise the recovered heat to a temperature level suitable for the Jena heating network.
A feasibility study completed in August 2025 had already confirmed the technical and economic viability. The next step is to apply for further funding from the Federal Funding for Efficient Heating Networks (BEW).
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Hiking map Saaletal Jena and surroundings
Detailed hiking map for excursions along the Saale river around Jena and Zwätzen.
Background: Climate protection and heat transition in Jena
Transitioning the heat supply to renewable energies and industrial waste heat is a central component of the local climate protection strategy. Through projects like ANIKA, Stadtwerke Jena are reducing the use of fossil fuels in the long term and driving the decarbonization of the municipal network. The project is thus in line with the overarching goals of achieving climate neutrality.
Next steps and timeline
The final investment decision for the project is expected in 2027, based on detailed economic viability assessments and the status of further permits and funding. If the schedule is met, construction could begin in 2028. Commissioning of the large-scale heat pump is targeted for 2030.
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.