Emitel, a leading operator of modern and secure digital infrastructure in Poland, has been honoured in the “Power of Transformation” competition organised by Puls Biznesu. The company received recognition from the judging panel in the “Energy Transformation in Action” category for its project titled “Cooling to Heat – from concept to a pillar of decarbonisation strategy.”
The awarded initiative represents an innovative implementation of circular economy principles within critical infrastructure, and serves as one of the key pillars of Emitel’s decarbonisation strategy. The project focuses on recovering waste heat generated in significant volumes by broadcast transmission systems and reusing it to heat facilities. This approach has enabled the complete elimination of energy-intensive electric heating.
During the summer months, the system operates in reverse – excess heat is expelled outside, significantly improving cooling efficiency and allowing traditional air conditioning to be largely replaced by an automated ventilation system (so-called free cooling). As a result, air conditioning units are only required during periods of extreme heat.
“This distinction is a clear acknowledgement of the innovation and commitment demonstrated by our engineering teams. The project aligns with our decarbonisation strategy and proves that critical infrastructure can be not only reliable, but also intelligent and environmentally responsible,” said Jerzy Godek, Member of the Management Board, Chief Technology Officer at Emitel.
“We are transforming what was once a cost – waste heat – into a valuable resource, reducing both energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. This is a tangible contribution to the green transition and further confirmation of our position as a leader of change within the industry,” he added.
The pilot project, implemented at the Radio and Television Broadcasting Centre in Częstochowa/Wręczyca, delivered measurable benefits:
- Annual energy savings of 77.8 MWh
- Complete elimination of electric heating (approximately 10 MWh annually)
- Reduction in air conditioning usage by approximately 67 MWh annually
- Decrease in CO₂ emissions by approximately 48 tonnes per year
Following the success of the pilot, the project has become a cornerstone of Emitel’s decarbonisation strategy, delivered under its certified ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System. The solution is currently being implemented across six additional company sites. Notably, the entire concept has been designed and delivered by Emitel’s in-house engineering teams, further strengthening the company’s capabilities in the field of green technologies.
The “Power of Transformation” competition promotes Polish enterprises that successfully undergo deep transformation processes, adapting their business models to contemporary challenges, including sustainability and energy efficiency. Emitel’s recognition underscores the crucial role of technological innovation in achieving climate goals and gaining a competitive edge.
