2025 WINNING PROJECT - HeatLink: Where Waste Heat Finds a Purpose

HeatLink turns a major paradox of the digital economy into a climate opportunity.

As data centers continue to grow exponentially, 100% of the electricity they consume is converted into heat, which is still largely wasted. HeatLink unlocks the potential of this unused energy to meet the increasing demand for low-carbon urban heating, transforming waste heat into a local, sustainable resource.

The project is built on a circular energy vision, where heat is no longer a by-product but a service. Through a Heat-as-a-Service model, HeatLink connects data centers, real estate developers, and heat engineering experts to capture, transform, and redistribute heat where it is needed most. This approach aligns technological growth and energy transition while creating shared value across the ecosystem.

In practice, HeatLink combines proven heat recovery technologies with a digital platform that enables smart matchmaking, economic viability assessment, and real-time impact monitoring. The result is a strong triple impact: reduced CO₂ emissions, new revenue streams for data centers, and lower heating costs for residential buildings. By reconnecting digital infrastructure with real-world needs, HeatLink positions itself as a key enabler of climate-positive, future-ready cities.