High-Performance Geothermal HVAC for Prague Train  Station

The modernised Prague–Bubny Railway Station in the Czech Republic sets a new benchmark for high-performance HVAC in large-scale transport hubs. Serving suburban rail, metro connections and public spaces, it is a key stop on the upgraded line linking central Prague with the airport and Kladno, while also acting as a major interchange with Metro Line C and the future Vltava Philharmonic Hall.

The project required a low-carbon, energy-efficient solution to manage fluctuating demand across vast open areas, delivered through three high-power ecoGEO⁺ HP heat pumps providing 261 kW of simultaneous heating and cooling, with part-load optimisation, intelligent zoning and readiness for future PV integration.

Climate Control in High-Occupancy Public Spaces

The station spans approximately 250 × 50 metres, with trains entering the interior, extensive glazing, and multiple usage areas including platforms, waiting zones and retail. HVAC needed to manage large, fluctuating thermal loads while maintaining air quality, acoustic comfort and stable temperatures.

The system also had to operate continuously, respond to dynamic occupancy and passenger flows, and allow for future scalability and renewable energy integration. Flexibility and reliability were critical for a high-traffic, multi-functional transport hub.

Smart zoning and part-load efficiency for large-scale infrastructure

The Prague–Bubny installation highlights the versatility of ground-source heat pump technology in complex infrastructure projects. Three ecoGEO⁺ HP units operate with ground-source collection to provide heating and cooling across all station areas, using variable-speed compressors and cascade operation to optimise part-load performance.

Energy is captured through 25 horizontal ground loops installed beneath the track superstructure, each 150 long, complemented by recovered waste heat from railway signalling systems and air/water heat exchangers. The system supports passive and active cooling, DHW production via HTR integration and intelligent zoning, ensuring efficient, future-ready comfort through underfloor systems and air-handling units.

Efficiency Highlights

The HVAC solution at Prague–Bubny is designed to maximise energy efficiency while ensuring reliable performance in a demanding transport environment. The use of ground-source heat pumps enables stable seasonal efficiency, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering operational carbon emissions.

Variable-speed compressors and part-load optimisation allow the system to adapt precisely to real demand, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption during off-peak periods. Heat recovery from technical systems and readiness for photovoltaic integration further enhance overall system efficiency, delivering long-term operational savings and supporting the station’s low-carbon strategy.