Vuosaari Bioenergy Plant for Heat Generation
In eastern Helsinki, Kivinen Rusanen Architects has completed the Vuosaari Bioenergy Heating Plant, a crucial addition to the decades-old Vuosaari power plant site. The energy facility supports Helsinki's mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, spearheaded by Finnish energy provider Helen Ltd.
Positioned at the heart of this expansive power plant complex, the Vuosaari Bioenergy Heating Plant generates around a quarter of the city's district heat, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by roughly 700,000 tonnes each year. The plant's output, achieved through a highly efficient energy-conserving combustion process, measures 260 MW. Although it does not currently produce electricity, the design incorporates potential future conversion to combined heat and power production.
The 10-year planning phase of the project saw intensive studies into available technologies and site scaling, with Kivinen Rusanen Architects demonstrating considerable expertise in the Vuosaari site, where the practice has designed every structure since the 1980s.
The plant's innovative architecture comprises two main components: a linear boiler building with a unique staggered appearance, and an integrated biofuel handling system. The boiler building houses critical equipment such as the combustion boiler and advanced heat recovery systems, reflecting the various heights of internal machinery. Adjoining structures accommodate fuel reception, screening, and storage, all connected by a network of conveyors.
The compact layout ensures room for future expansion while maintaining operational efficiency. Minimized footprints are achieved through the use of slender steel trusses supporting conveyor networks, offering flexibility without compromising space. The plant's location close to existing facilities balances functionality with spatial constraints, leaving ample area for future developments.
Given Vuosaari's industrial presence in the harbor landscape, careful consideration was given to the plant's visual impact. Neighboring public parks, residential areas, and sea views influenced the design, resulting in enhanced landscaping along Satamakaari Street and a double facade system that conceals technical equipment while reducing glare and thermal radiation.
Flexible and fire code-compliant, perforated aluminum composite panels clad the boiler building, while corrugated steel sheeting adorns fuel-handling structures to accommodate a complex array of smaller structures. The plant's internal spaces benefit from extensive glazing, significantly increasing natural light and improving safety and comfort for maintenance staff.
Commissioned by Helen Ltd and designed by Kivinen Rusanen Architects, the Vuosaari Bioenergy Heating Plant showcases sustainable energy solutions and advanced design principles, aligning with the company's commitment to renewable and carbon-neutral energy strategies[1]. The project's distinction as a shortlisted entry for the World Architecture Festival Award underscores its architectural prowess and quality[2].
Credits
Client: Helen LtdArchitect: Kivinen Rusanen ArchitectsStructural Engineer: Sweco Finland LtdLandscape Design: Sweco Finland LtdContractors for concrete structures: Louhintahiekka Ltd, SRV Infra Ltd
- In the pursuit of renewable and carbon-neutral energy, the Vuosaari Bioenergy Heating Plant, a noteworthy project by Kivinen Rusanen Architects, showcases how science and technology can contribute significantly to environmental-science endeavors, such as climate-change mitigation.
- Given the financial backing of Finnish energy provider Helen Ltd and the expertise of Kivinen Rusanen Architects in environmental-science projects, the plant's synchronization with the city's industry sector illuminates the potential for a carbon-neutral future while ensuring operational efficiency and future expansion options.
- The Vuosaari Bioenergy Heating Plant's integration of advanced design principles, including its double facade system, perforated aluminum composite panels, and corrugated steel sheeting, aligns with the finance-driven emphasis on architectural prowess and quality, as evidenced by the project's shortlisting for the World Architecture Festival Award.
