Sky`s studio Harlequin 1 to be powered by CCHP plant

The Harlequin 1 project involves the technical fit out of a new 23,000 m², 4 storey building, to form a 21st Century media building that will deliver television studios and support facilities in a sustainable, responsible manner. This technical building for BSkyB’s Broadcast & Sports department comprises of eight exemplar naturally ventilated studios, including one specifically for Sky Sports News.

The decision has been made to build a combined cooling, heat and power plant (CCHP) to cover Sky’s energy demand. Recycled wood is used to fire a 6.5MWth furnace that supplies heat to a 4.2MWth thermal oil system that operates at 313°C. The thermal oil system powers an ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) to generate 1.0MWel power.

Sky covers three operational areas by using generated electricity, warm water as well as cooling by a system of absorption chillers for its new building. Surplus on electrical power will be sold to
the grid. Due to the near location to central London and the use of recycled wood, the emission requirements are based on high standard.