Environment
New CHP unit for the Haus Hilmeke vacation hotel sustainably reduces CO2 and operating costs
In the middle of the Sauerland region, close to the Rothaarsteig premium hiking trail, you will find the "Haus Hilmeke" vacation hotel on the outskirts of the climatic health resort of Lennestadt-Saalhausen. The history of this pretty hotel dates back to 1870, when the original half-timbered house was built here. Guests and vacationers have been finding peace and relaxation here since 1924. In the meantime, an indoor swimming pool with bathing area, sauna and apartments have been added to the hotel, which is now run by the third generation of the Kuhlmann family. "With all the renovations and extensions, it was never important to us to increase the number of guest beds, but rather the comfort and service," says Michael Kuhlmann.
Efficient management of electricity and heat with CHP units
In order to supply the 52-bed hotel with environmentally friendly and inexpensive electricity and heat, the hotelier had three SenerTec Dachs combined heat and power units installed for the pool area and two additional CHP units for the hotel and restaurant several years ago. In 2015, the decision was made to modernize the latter two. After a detailed analysis by a specialist company, a new concept was developed around a modern CHP unit from EC Power, the market leader for CHP units up to 20 kW. Premium partner WHSE from Siegen installed the XRGI with an electrical output of 20 kW and a thermal output of 40 kW as well as the two 800 l buffer storage tanks.
In the first six months after commissioning in September 2015 alone, the BHWK at Haus Hilmeke already supplied 100,000 kWh of electricity.
In 2025, the CHP unit was replaced by a new identical one.
NRW promotes CHP use for energy transition
This project in Haus Hilmeke was funded by the progres.nrw program: The Ministry for Climate Protection, Environment, Agriculture, Nature Conservation and Consumer Protection has bundled the funding policy activities for energy policy in the state of NRW in this program. Part of this program is the guideline for promoting the rational use of energy, renewable energies and energy saving, which also takes into account the promotion of local and district heating. The aim is to accelerate the broad market introduction of the many applicable technologies for the use of inexhaustible energy sources and the rational use of energy in order to make a significant contribution to climate protection and the reduction ofCO2 emissions.
Combined heat and power generation advances the energy transition.
Additionally purchased gas and electricity are eco-certified.
