Monitoring CHRS & Installing Compost Heating
Our partner Stichting Biomeiler visited Herpen & Venhorst, Netherlands, in a series on the documentation, monitoring, and analysis of Compost Heat Recovery Systems (CHRS). This initiative brought together local innovators and stakeholders to share experiences with the CHRS, in which several innovations and concepts are explored, like the potential of using chicken manure, marking a significant milestone for the TEAPOTS project.
CHRS is an innovative concept that offers dual benefits: improving soil health and recovering heat generated through composting. However, these systems often struggle with stability, limiting their effectiveness and broader adoption. These workshops mark a critical step toward building a more systematic understanding of how these systems function and how they can be optimised.
The team has already gathered valuable insights, including:
Effective monitoring and control are essential to keep the microorganisms in the thermophilic phase
Practical feedstock storage solutions
Recover heat with a condenser heat-exchanger
Experiment on effective pump control (to avoid cooling down the system)
Cost-effective aeration methods, both passive and active
This work is crucial for the TEAPOTS project as the insights and data gathered will directly support the implementation of CHRS systems in the Greek and Sicilian TIS pilots.
Stichting Biomeiler has also collaborated with Utrecht University to bring student-led innovation to life. At the university's De Tolakker farm, experts and students have designed a compost-heating system using wood chips, water, and cow manure. The compost heap generates energy for functional use by recovering the heat of the damp above and by conduction in the heap, which eventually heats nearby university offices. This project highlights the role of young innovators in driving sustainable energy solutions forward.
These activities reflect the core mission of TEAPOTS: to connect research with practice and support the transition to sustainable, community-driven technologies.
