The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) Commercial Heat Pump Accelerator program is designed to enhance building efficiency and electrification. Running from 2024 through 2027, the program aims to overcome adoption barriers, promote advanced heat pump technologies, and create sustainable solutions for HVAC professionals.
Compared with conventional packaged rooftop units (RTUs) with natural gas heating, heat pump RTUs are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs by up to 50%. For those in the HVAC industry, this program is an opportunity to boost operational efficiency, align with emerging sustainability standards, and unlock new business.
Transforming Commercial HVAC with Heat Pumps
Known for their dual heating and cooling abilities, heat pumps save energy compared to conventional HVAC systems
The DoE’s program centers on accelerating the adoption of high-efficiency heat pumps for space conditioning and water heating. By working collaboratively with stakeholders—including manufacturers, utilities, and facility managers—the initiative seeks to integrate energy-efficient solutions into commercial buildings nationwide.
Known for their dual heating and cooling capabilities, heat pumps save energy compared to conventional HVAC systems. The Accelerator program prioritizes cutting-edge systems to lower energy consumption and operating costs for businesses. As decarbonization becomes a global priority, electrification of HVAC systems is also key. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, heat pumps contribute to a cleaner energy future.
Practical Benefits for Professionals
For HVAC professionals, the program provides a framework to explore new markets and enhance service offerings. With the Accelerator program’s emphasis on efficiency, HVAC professionals can help clients reduce energy bills, providing a tangible ROI for heat pump installations.
Participants in the program also gain access to technical guidance, best practices, and case studies, fostering skills to implement heat pumps effectively. As building owners seek energy-efficient solutions, HVAC professionals are positioned as experts in heat pump technology in order to gain a competitive edge.
Success of the residential challenge
The retail program is a growth of an earlier program related to residential technologies
The commercial program is an expansion of an earlier program related to residential technologies. Last fall, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced that eight manufacturers in the Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge completed rigorous product field testing to demonstrate energy efficiency and improved performance in cold weather. Bosch, Carrier, Daikin, Johnson Controls, Lennox, Midea, Rheem, and Trane Technologies participated in the residential challenge. Cold climate heat pumps (CCHPs) developed as part of the challenge will soon enter commercial production, manufacturers say.
Building upon the success of the residential challenge, DOE is now working with nine heat pump manufacturers to advance rooftop units (RTUs) for commercial buildings through a new technology challenge.
Commercial Building Heat Pump Challenge
Expanding with the Commercial Building Heat Pump Challenge through its Better Buildings program, DoE is now working with heat pump manufacturers AAON, Addison, Carrier, Daikin, Johnson Controls, Lennox, LG, Rheem, and Trane Technologies to improve the energy efficiency and performance of RTUs in cold weather.
The manufacturers will partner with DoE and national laboratories to create prototypes and test product performance and durability. They will then lead field validations with Better Buildings partners, including Amazon, General Motors, Ikea, the Los Angeles Unified School District, Target, Whole Foods, and others.
Tackling Challenges in Heat Pump Adoption
The DoE program recognizes common challenges HVAC professionals face in promoting commercial heat pump adoption and provides strategic solutions.
- Cost Barriers: The upfront cost of heat pumps can deter clients. The program encourages collaboration with utilities to offer incentives and financing options, making the transition more affordable.
- Performance in Cold Climates: Heat pumps have historically underperformed in colder regions. By focusing on technological advancements, the Accelerator addresses performance issues, ensuring systems work efficiently even in extreme weather.
- Workforce Training: To ensure seamless implementation, the DoE supports workforce development through training programs, thus empowering HVAC professionals to deliver high-quality installations.
A Collective Push for Change
The Accelerator agenda thrives on alliances, leveraging the expertise of diverse stakeholders
The Accelerator program thrives on partnerships, leveraging the expertise of diverse stakeholders. For manufacturers and innovators, the program promotes advanced heat pump technologies that meet the diverse needs of commercial buildings.
For utilities and energy providers, there are incentives to encourage adoption and offset initial costs. Building owners and facility managers can benefit from sharing insights and case studies to demonstrate the practical benefits of heat pumps in real-world scenarios. In general, HVAC professionals can benefit by staying connected to these networks, keeping abreast of new technologies and customer-centric solutions.
Heat Pumps and a Greener Future
Heat pumps align with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and meet regulatory requirements. For HVAC professionals, this means not only improving the environmental impact of their services but also helping clients achieve compliance with evolving energy codes and standards.
The DoE’s Commercial Heat Pump Accelerator program offers HVAC professionals a clear path to embrace innovation, improve energy efficiency, and secure a leadership position in a rapidly changing marketplace. By participating in the program, HVAC experts can drive the industry forward while enhancing their businesses and delivering meaningful value to clients. As the HVAC landscape evolves, those who seize this opportunity will not only adapt but thrive, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in the years to come.
