The Osnabrück Zoo was founded by the consortium Heimattiergarten e. V. Osnabrück in  1936. Over the years, the zoo has become home to more than 300 species of animals from all over the world and, with over one million visitors each year, one of the most popular zoos in Germany. 

Osnabrück “Energy Conservation Zoo” campaign
Housing this many animals all year round at the Osnabrück Zoo requires large amounts of energy. After all, specially designed and airconditioned habitats must be created in order to accommodate the widely different needs of the various species. The “Energy Conservation Zoo” campaign was launched in 2009 to rectify structural shortcomings in the buildings and keep energy costs down. Initial small-scale measures introduced in 2009 already saved € 68,200 in energy expenses. They also reduced carbon dioxide emissions by roughly 250 tons. After several successful years with a positive response, the decision to use a CHP plant was the logical consequence.

Front runner in efficiency
The newly installed combined heat and power plant blends in seamlessly with the new conditions of its surroundings: the agenitor  406 feeds electricity into the general supply  grid and heats the Takamanda Africa area, the  museum and other buildings. With its electrical efficiency rating of 42.5%, the agenitor 406 is one of 2G’s efficiency leaders. The engine takes advantage of the benefits of the 4-valve technology, which enables better gas exchange and more efficient combustion. The module is also equipped with high-performance steel pistons, which significantly reduce heat losses during the combustion process and minimize friction, which is detrimental to efficiency.