Seoul announced the selection of two major development projects to incorporate water-based thermal energy systems. (Image courtesy of Seoul City)
SEOUL, Dec. 5 (Korea Bizwire) – In a bold move to promote sustainable energy, Seoul announced the selection of two major development projects to incorporate water-based thermal energy systems: the Jamsil Sports & MICE Complex and the Seongsu-dong K-Project. The decision marks a significant step in reducing carbon emissions and energy costs in large-scale urban developments.
The initiative utilizes water drawn from Han River intake pipes, known as dosu pipelines, which transport untreated water to purification facilities. By tapping into water’s natural temperature-regulating properties—cooler than air in summer and warmer in winter—the system provides efficient heating and cooling solutions for buildings.
The Jamsil project involves the construction of sports and MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) facilities within the Jamsil Sports Complex. Its proximity to the dosu pipelines offers an ideal location for thermal energy integration.
Meanwhile, the Seongsu-dong K-Project will transform a former retail site into a mixed-use office and cultural complex, relying entirely on water-based thermal energy for its heating and cooling needs.
Together, the two projects will leverage up to 19,000 refrigeration tons (RT) of water-based energy per hour, enough to heat and cool approximately 55 million square feet—equivalent to 1.3 times the size of the Lotte World Tower.
This system is projected to reduce energy consumption by 40% compared to traditional cooling towers while cutting greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 6,600 tons annually—the equivalent of planting 47,000 pine trees.
Seoul’s dosu pipelines have a maximum capacity of 42,700 RT per hour, with water drawn from three intake facilities across the city. Officials plan to expand the program in 2025, aiming to supply an additional 23,700 RT to future projects.
“The integration of water-based thermal energy aligns with our vision for a greener Seoul,” a city spokesperson stated, highlighting the initiative’s potential to lead urban sustainability efforts nationwide.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
