Prague airport advances carbon neutrality plans with installation of modern Wilo pumps

Václav Havel Airport Prague has taken another step in its sustainable development efforts through the renovation of boiler rooms in Terminal 3 and the security and operations building (ZAO). As part of the project, energy-efficient pumping systems from Wilo were installed, contributing to the airport’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. The renovation, which cost over CZK 30.5 million, follows previous upgrades by Wilo that included modernisation of the airport’s wastewater treatment plant and pressure station over the past two years.

The airport’s long-term strategy focuses on reducing the environmental impact of its operations while maintaining capacity, safety, and passenger comfort. A key component of this strategy was the comprehensive refurbishment of two boiler rooms—one located in Terminal 3, which also provides heating for the adjacent Ramada hotel, and the other in the ZAO building.

The renovation involved replacing the technology in both boiler rooms, installing new condensing boilers, modifying distribution systems, and integrating modern Wilo pumping systems to improve the circulation of heating water. In total, nine Wilo Stratos MAXO and PICO circulation pumps were installed. These pumps feature intelligent technology that automatically adjusts operation to match system requirements, reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.

Jan Cidlinský, Regional Director for Central Europe at Wilo, highlighted the significance of upgrading circulation pumps, noting their influence on the overall efficiency of heating systems and the potential for energy and emissions reductions.

Dušan Bek, water management technician at Prague Airport, stated that in selecting technology for the renovation, the airport prioritised energy efficiency and sustainability alongside performance and reliability. He said every improvement contributes to the airport’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint and achieving carbon neutrality within five years.

Alongside the installation of the new Wilo pumps, the project included replacing the original boilers with Viessmann Vitocrossal 200 CM2C gas condensing units, each delivering 248 kW of power. The combined capacity of the upgraded boiler rooms is 992 kW, ensuring adequate heating even during peak demand. Additional work involved redesigning flue gas and heating distribution systems, updating ventilation and sanitary installations, installing a new water treatment system, and optimising the water heating process within the boiler rooms.

Prior to the boiler room renovation, Wilo had already completed modernisation projects at the airport, including updates to the wastewater treatment plant and pressure station. These facilities, upgraded after twenty years of operation, now comply with current standards for energy efficiency and performance.