Carrier Corporation - Experts & Thought Leaders

Carrier Global Corporation, pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions, and Google Cloud are joining forces to enhance grid flexibility and support smarter energy management. Led by Carrier Energy, Carrier's new energy solutions business, this initiative will integrate Carrier's battery-enabled HVAC technology-delivered through its Home Energy Management System (HEMS) solutions-with Google Cloud's AI-powered analytics and WeatherNext AI models built by Google DeepMind and Google Research. The combined solution is expected to create intelligent, connected solutions for residential HVAC energy customers.   Advancing AI-Powered Energy Management These factors present new opportunities and challenges for both utilities and consumers Electricity demand is rising across the U.S. as factors such as onshoring, electrification of transport and adoption of AI converge. These factors present new opportunities and challenges for both utilities and consumers. By leveraging real-time energy forecasting and intelligent grid interaction, Carrier and Google Cloud are working to ensure Carrier's HEMS technology will help balance supply and demand across the grid. Google's AI-powered WeatherNext models For homeowners, this means they can store energy in batteries and use it during peak demand periods, when electricity costs are typically higher. Google's AI-powered WeatherNext models further optimize HVAC operation, enabling greater efficiency and potential cost savings. This will help promote greater availability, reliability and affordability for energy users. benefits for the local grids Carrier and Google Cloud will collaborate on innovative solutions to help unlock capacity This initiative helps facilitate Google's ambition to create new carbon-free energy solutions that support reliable and resilient grid operations. It also supports Carrier's goal of helping its customers avoid more than one gigaton of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.  Under this partnership, Carrier and Google Cloud will collaborate on innovative solutions to help unlock capacity and grid expansion in U.S. markets. By working together, Carrier and Google Cloud aim to create scalable benefits for the local grids where Carrier customers live. Clean energy solutions "Across the country we see an opportunity to build resilience in communities and scale innovative, clean energy solutions that foster economic growth," said Caroline Golin, global head of Energy Market Development and Innovation at Google. "Through collaboration with Carrier, and across the industry, we hope to create the change that brings benefits for all." Unlocking Grid Efficiency Carrier's next-generation heat pump will feature battery storage, intelligent energy forecasting First announced at Climate Week NYC last fall, Carrier's next-generation heat pump will feature battery storage, intelligent energy forecasting and grid-interactive capabilities to help utilities flatten demand peaks and enhance energy efficiency. By integrating Carrier's HEMS technology with Google Cloud's BigQuery, Vertex AI, generative AI solutions, and WeatherNext's forecasting models, the system will intelligently manage energy flows in real time-charging, discharging and redirecting energy based on grid conditions, energy demands and weather forecasts-contributing to a more balanced and sustainable energy grid. Integrating Carrier's HEMS technology Homeowners using stored battery energy during peak periods can help reduce strain on the grid when electricity demand is highest and energy supplies tend to have a higher carbon footprint. The project will roll out in phases through 2027, with a focus on scaling nationwide adoption thereafter. "Our energy systems must evolve to be more intelligent, flexible and economically efficient," said Hakan Yilmaz, chief technology and sustainability officer at Carrier and head of the company's new energy business. "By integrating Carrier's HEMS technology with Google Cloud's AI and analytics, we aim to help increase the efficiency of existing energy infrastructure-reducing grid congestion, unlocking greater energy utilization and contributing to economic growth." Carrier's intelligent HVAC systems Homeowners using stored battery energy during peak periods can help reduce strain on the grid "Carrier's innovative approach to energy grid management solutions will help create a lasting positive impact on the U.S. energy landscape." "By integrating Google Cloud's AI and analytics with Carrier's intelligent HVAC systems, we are creating solutions that meaningfully contribute to a more efficient and resilient energy ecosystem," said Kyle Jessen, managing director, Energy Sector, Google Cloud. A Smarter, More Resilient Energy Future As utilities, businesses and consumers adapt to an evolving energy landscape, AI-driven energy optimization will play a critical role in ensuring grid resilience and supporting electrification. Through this collaboration, Carrier and Google Cloud are taking a bold step toward a smarter, more efficient and AI-powered energy ecosystem-one that not only benefits homeowners but also supports the next generation of technology infrastructure.

Carrier is proud to introduce its newest water-source heat pump models, the Aquazone™ 50WC, 50WD, and 50WT, which feature lower-Global Warming Potential Puron Advance™ refrigerant. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. The 50WC is available from ½ to 6 nominal tons and has a compact, optimized design in both vertical and horizontal configurations ideal for new construction and replacement applications. 50W-Series heat pump models The 50WT offers the highest level of efficiency in the series with 2-stage operation from 2 to 6 tons The 50WD is available with the same capacity range and offers a higher efficiency level, and 2-stage operation from 2 to 6 tons capacity, for enhanced energy savings. The 50WT offers the highest level of efficiency in the series with 2-stage operation from 2 to 6 tons.  All 50W-Series heat pump models include enhanced serviceability features, a wide variety of factory-installed options and flexible configurations suitable for boiler tower, geothermal and hybrid water loop systems. Intelligent HVAC solutions “The AquaZone heat pump line was created to offer increased efficiency and configurations to match a wide range of applications,” said Alan Youker, Sr. Product Manager, Carrier. “The 50WC is our latest update, providing more options and a smaller footprint and proving once again that Carrier is committed to providing intelligent HVAC solutions to fit the needs of its customers." Use of lower GWP refrigerant Puron Advance is the retail name for R-454B, which Carrier has adopted for its commercial products Youker added: "The 50WD’s and 50WT’s higher efficiency and use of lower GWP refrigerant makes them ideally suited for LEED® certification projects, especially those involving geothermal systems.” Puron Advance is the commercial name for R-454B, which Carrier has adopted for its light commercial and residential products. Reduction from R-410A Its GWP100 of 466, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report, is a 75% reduction from R-410A. GWP is a measure of a substance’s climate warming impact compared to CO2.  That reduction and its non-ozone depleting potential is why Puron Advance was selected as one of the best solutions to minimize environmental impact and provide longevity based on updated government regulations.

Carrier has launched a new line of K-Series WeatherMaker® Applied rooftop units available with more environmentally sustainable R-454B refrigerant, known commercially as Puron Advance. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. The K-series is available in 20-to-60-ton nominal cooling capacities and features a robust indoor fan system and improved design for higher efficiency compared to legacy Carrier models. Variable Air Volume configurations The K-Series, which includes the 48K with gas heating and electric cooling and the 50K with electric cooling with optional electric or hydronic heat, has a commercial-grade cabinet with fully hinged access panels, designed to fit most legacy Carrier curbs. The K-Series has a high-capacity forward curve indoor fan with variable frequency drive control and available Staged Air Volume or Variable Air Volume configurations to meet a wide range of application requirements. Humidi-MiZer® dehumidification Other parts Carrier SmartVu™ controls with a 7-inch touchscreen display, a refrigerant leak detection system Other features include Carrier SmartVu™ controls with a 7-inch touchscreen display, a refrigerant leak detection system with dissipation control, and a variety of factory-installed options, including an ultra-low leak economizer, modulating gas or electric heat, Humidi-MiZer® dehumidification and double wall construction with available Agion® anti-microbial coating. “Carrier’s K-Series rooftop units are the latest in a long line of flexible, efficient and reliable solutions for commercial air conditioning and indoor air quality needs,” said Michael Jones, Product Manager, Applied Packaged Systems, Carrier. EPA’s lower GWP requirements Jones added: “We’re helping our customers prepare to meet regulatory requirements while also designing our products to be efficient and innovative, all while offering easy installation and compatibility with existing curbs.” The adoption of Puron Advance surpasses the EPA’s lower GWP requirements for 2025. R-454B has a GWP100 of 466 according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report — a 75% reduction from R-410A — and non-ozone depleting potential, the refrigerant was selected as one of the best solutions to minimize environmental impact and provide longevity-based on the United Nations Montreal Protocol Kigali Agreement phasedown plan. GWP is a measure of a substance’s climate warming impact compared to CO2.

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act is among the environmental initiatives and regulations driving the phasedown in the use of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants in the HVAC industry. The AIM Act’s schedule seeks to phase down HFCs by 85% by 2036. The first significant reduction in consumption and production under the AIM Act began on Jan. 1, 2022, representing a 10% reduction from a baseline value. The next major step begins Jan. 1, 2024, with an additional 30% reduction, followed by another 30% reduction starting Jan. 1, 2029. adoption of retrofit or new systems This phasedown, rather than phaseout, approach should prevent any debilitating disruption to the industry; however, the adoption of retrofit or new systems sooner rather than later is key to a smooth transition. “We have a unique opportunity to impact worldwide change, one business, one community at a time by supporting our customers through the phasedown of HFCs,” says Brandon Marshall, Americas Marketing Manager, Stationary and Specialty Applications, The Chemours Company. next-generation products Chemours seeks to help the industry navigate the complex technology and regulatory landscape As the inventor of Freon and Opteon refrigerants, Chemours has been driving evolution in the HVACR industry for nearly a century, innovating next-generation products for diverse needs and applications. As a champion of the HVACR professional, Chemours seeks to help the industry navigate the complex technology and regulatory landscape.  hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants Chemours’ Opteon portfolio of hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants features zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and low global warming potential (GWP). The refrigerants offer a balance of performance, environmental sustainability, safety, and cost when considering retrofit or new equipment solutions. Chemours pairs these innovations with technical support, education, and customer service delivered by a team of experts with decades of experience. education and training  “Chemours is highly invested in providing the education and training that will facilitate [the transition], as well as delivering solutions that meet each customer’s unique needs, timeline, and budget,” says Marshall. “The vision of the AIM Act aligns perfectly with our corporate commitment to being the leader in sustainable HVACR solutions and a global force in protecting the environment,” adds Marshall. sustainable, better-performing solutions Chemours’ Opteon portfolio helps customers implement the right solution through the phasedown Chemours’ commitment to “courageous chemistry” drives its development of highly sustainable, better-performing solutions. Chemours’ Opteon portfolio helps customers define and implement the right solution through the phasedown. Many systems are still operating with R-22, although the supply is now limited to the reclaimed refrigerant. Due to dwindling supply, these users urgently need to retrofit their systems. The next phasedown under the AIM Act is coming quickly on Jan. 1, 2024.  Market price availability and impact For several years, Chemours has seen commitments from major OEMs to produce equipment operating with HFOs. Marshall says that continued HFC phasedowns, OEM adoption, and increased manufacturing of HFO refrigerants by companies like Chemours will impact market pricing and availability for HFOs and HFCs.  The industry can expect an exponential increase in retrofits and new installations of HFO-charged equipment. R-454B Chemours Opteon XL41 was the “big product” the company emphasized at the AHR Expo in February. The R-454B refrigerant is the new-generation solution paving the way for what lies ahead in the short- and long-term regulatory landscape. It is the lowest-GWP replacement for R-410A on the market offering a 78% reduction in GWP while providing value and peace of mind as the industry transitions away from HFCs, says Chemours. Opteon XL41 The more people we can introduce to Opteon XL41 and the stronger our collaborations, the greater the impact" Opteon XL41 has been selected by leading global OEMs, including Carrier, Johnson Controls, and Rheem, which have announced alignment with Chemours for the utilization of this product. “All of us realize that the more people we can introduce to Opteon XL41 and the stronger our collaborations, the greater the impact we can have in meeting environmental objectives,” says Marshall. commercial refrigeration sector The commercial refrigeration sector is quickly following air conditioning by embracing next-generation products such as Opteon XL10 (R-1234yf/ AR4 GWP 4), Opteon XL20 (R-454C/ AR4 GWP 148), and Opteon XL40 (R-454A/ AR4 GWP 239). “However, many businesses operating refrigeration systems need to walk before they run,” says Marshall. “Not everyone can immediately invest the money and/or time for new installations.” OEMs OEMs are supporting the transition by ensuring a healthy supply of retrofit equipment is available while keeping close tabs on the demand for new equipment charged with next-generation products. Several high-performance, efficient, and environmentally sound retrofit solutions exist utilizing HFO refrigerants such as Opteon XP10 (R-513A/ AR4 GWP 631) and XP40 (R-449A/ AR4 GWP 1397).  Leveraging resources  Ultimately, everyone must appreciate the value of A2Ls and be comfortable using them “By remaining data-driven, suppliers in the industry will be ready to meet changing demands and support the health of businesses and the planet,” says Marshall. Ultimately, everyone must appreciate the value of A2Ls and be comfortable using them. This requires ongoing education and training. There are many opportunities for this already out there, so technicians and the industry need to start or continue to leverage these resources, says Marshall.  webinars Chemours offers a variety of training to ensure the safe use of A2Ls and encourage adoption as soon as it is practical. This includes webinars with several industry partners and leaders, on-site training, online training brochures, videos, and customer support to ensure everyone is prepared for the transition. best practices Fortunately, the use of A2Ls does not amount to a situation of “back to square one” that requires technicians and installers to relearn everything while maintaining current skills to continue to service older systems. In reality, A2Ls such as Opteon XL41 (R-454B) feel very similar to working with R-410A. For R-454B systems, the installation and service procedures are similar to those of R-410A.  Moreover, the best practices that technicians have used for years remain applicable with A2Ls. These refrigerants are safe when handled properly, offer lower toxicity, and have been used effectively around the world to increase efficiency and reduce emissions, says Marshall. Environmentally responsible operations Environmentally responsible operations are a reality that will continue and escalate" “The world is locked into driving towards a more sustainable planet,” says Marshall. “Environmentally responsible operations are a reality that will continue and escalate." "This is driven not only by the regulatory landscape but also by corporate responsibility missions. The businesses that thrive will support these missions at every level of their operations.” sustainability  As the phasedown continues and receives more attention, consumers will join the conversation, driving everyone from contractors to facility managers to show support for environmental sustainability. Marshall says the installers and technicians need to be prepared to service these HFO-driven systems otherwise, that business will “walk out your door.” Regulatory compliance “Regulatory compliance may be the strongest motivator for change currently, but in our industry, every player must work to reduce the overall consumption of higher-GWP products,” says Marshall. “It is our responsibility to the communities we serve.” Chemours is a global chemistry company with leading positions in titanium technologies, thermal and specialized solutions, advanced performance materials, and chemical solutions, all working to create a better world through the power of our chemistry, according to the company.

New tax credits and rebates are poised to infuse billions of dollars into the HVAC marketplace in the United States, making a variety of high-efficiency technologies more affordable for consumers and generating additional revenue in the HVAC market for years to come. clean energy investments A new law provides Americans with access to $370 billion for clean energy investments in the form of tax credits, incentives, and rebates to improve energy efficiency. There is also a tax deduction for owners of commercial buildings retrofitted to meet energy-saving goals. In August 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act, which (despite its name) focuses on billions of dollars of spending on climate change and healthcare. Families can take advantage of clean energy and electric vehicle tax credits to save up to $1,200 per year. Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit Inflation Reduction Act provides $14,000 in direct consumer rebates for families to buy heat pumps or other home appliances The law renews the Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit and increases the credit limit for installing high-efficiency equipment such as heat pumps, central air conditioning systems, furnaces, hot water boilers, etc. The program is extended through 2032. The $1,200 annual cap includes up to $600 for a qualified air conditioner or gas furnace, and up to $2,000 for a qualified heat pump, heat pump water heater, or boiler. There are no income requirements, and the tax credit can be combined with local or utility rebates. In addition, the Inflation Reduction Act provides $14,000 in direct consumer rebates for families to buy heat pumps or other energy-efficient home appliances (contingent on income requirements). High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program (HEEHRP) provides point-of-sale rebates as high as $8,000 for a space heating or cooling heat pump. It also provides an $840 rebate on a stove, cooktop, range, oven, or heat pump clothes dryer, and $1,750 for a heat pump water heater. An additional rebate is available for non-appliance upgrades such as insulation, air sealing, and ventilation ($1,000). Rebate criteria There are limits to the amount families can receive, based on income and other factors. For example, a rebate cannot exceed 50% of the cost of a qualified project if the family’s annual income is between 80% and 150% of the median income in the area. For lower-income households, 100% of costs are covered. Each family is limited to $14,000 or less in total rebates under the program. Distribution and benefits Rebates will be distributed through state and tribal governments that establish their qualifying programs Rebates will be available beginning in January 2023 and continue through September 2031. Rebates will be distributed through state and tribal governments that establish their qualifying programs. How the rebates are distributed will vary from state to state. The new law will be a boon to manufacturers and installers of high-efficiency products such as variable-speed compressors and heat pumps.  cleaner, cost-effective product solutions "The federal government is making a substantial investment in electrification, which is a significant step to reducing emissions and combatting climate change,” says Alok Maskara, Chief Executive Officer at Lennox International. “As these new programs and incentives become available, we're committed to supporting Lennox dealers as they provide homeowners with cleaner, cost-effective product solutions for their homes." energy security These incentives present consumers with an opportunity to replace any aging, lower-efficiency HVAC systems" “By bolstering current supplies while accelerating the sustainable energy transition, the energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act will strengthen energy security and meaningfully reduce emissions, representing an important step towards a better future,” says Katie McGinty, vice president, and chief sustainability officer, Johnson Controls. "The[se] unprecedented incentives present consumers with a compelling opportunity to replace any aging, lower-efficiency HVAC systems with advanced, high-efficiency technology at a fraction of the cost," says Chris Nelson, President, HVAC, Carrier. cost savings with climate-friendly technologies "The cost savings are measurable for both the initial purchase and monthly energy costs as are the environmental benefits. Encouraging this shift to climate-friendly technologies signals an important step forward, and Carrier is committed to doing its part to drive progress." Carrier has launched its new Carrier EcoHome Program, which offers low-rate financing and additional savings on eligible high-efficiency products such as the Infinity series air conditioners and heat pumps.

Rooftop units (RTUs) withstand a lion’s share of the burden, when it comes to heating and cooling commercial buildings, and they also represent a big portion of a building’s impact on global warming. Traditional low-tech approaches to controlling RTUs have failed to address global warming concerns, and these units, operating independently, may not even deliver sufficiently on the climate demands of a building. Intelligent approach to managing energy demand Providing an intelligent approach to managing energy demand and consumption of RTUs, Encycle Inc. enables multiple RTUs in a large building to operate as a coordinated system. Encycle’s Swarm Logic cloud-based control system also enables RTUs to operate more efficiently, using less energy and minimizing their impact on sustainability. Performance improves in the process. “When you look at RTUs today, they are not the smartest things in the world,” said Ana-Paula Issa, Encycle’s Executive Vice President (EVP) of Sales, adding “The building is an environment, and RTUs need to work together. If we want to maintain 72 degrees in the building, what is the most efficient amount of energy we can use to get there and to run the units as a coordinated system?” Swarm Logic cloud system The intelligent approach offers more flexibility and provides the ability to lower costs The Swarm Logic cloud system collects data from a building’s automation system (BAS), analyzes the data, and operates the building’s RTUs in response to that analysis. The system operates 24/7 and makes independent considerations every five minutes to fine-tune the path to greater efficiency and less energy usage. The operation happens behind the scenes without impacting occupancy comfort. Ana-Paula Issa adds, “For customers, the whole thing is autonomous, they just wait for the savings.” The intelligent approach offers more flexibility and provides the ability to lower costs without impacting occupant comfort. The proposition is especially desirable when compared to processes such as load limiting and load shedding, which can impact occupant comfort. Driven by artificial intelligence (AI) “It’s a more intelligent way to lower consumption,” said Ana-Paula Issa, adding “If you are trying to affect building load profile 24/7, we bring an intelligence factor that looks at set points and analyzes how long RTUs will take to get there.” Swarm Logic considers data points, such as temperature set points, energy draw, run time, the weather, and the thermal load. Driven by artificial intelligence (AI), the system learns and adjusts on the fly to maximize operational efficiency. Similar approach to Google Maps Ana-Paula Issa compares the approach to Google Maps: You plug in a destination (in this comparison, a desired climate control target), and the system creates the quickest, easiest, shortest way to get to the destination. In effect, it provides an intelligent approach to demand and consumption management for RTUs. “We help customers with demand response to help alleviate grid stress and to generate revenue,” said Ana-Paula Issa. The system considers ‘peak demand costs’ in addition to kilowatt hour (kWh) charges and drives operation to minimize the expensive electricity rates, during high demand periods and to maximize use of lower-cost energy when demand is lower. Meeting carbon reduction and sustainability goals The system calculates energy savings and utility base charges, in addition to targeting sustainability goals, primarily carbon reduction. Reducing energy usage during peak demand times can earn a utility customer a lower billing rate. Encycle was founded with an environmental mission, focused on climate change and to manage the impact of general business prospects on climate. Because commercial buildings make up the largest share of energy demand on the grid, it provided a logical place to start. The system calculates energy savings and utility base charges Helping energy managers’ report on carbon reduction “A lot of commercial buildings have made a commitment to sustainability, including a reduction in kWh and carbon,” said Ana-Paula Issa, adding “We are helping energy managers to report on carbon reductions, as well as reducing them. For everything we do on the reduction side, we provide carbon reporting information.” Encycle’s system is applicable to any application that uses RTUs, including large retail stores, and entertainment venues such as movie theatres, arcades, and restaurants. In the education market, they have had a couple of schools sign up. Swarm Stat program The Swarm Stat program provides customers the benefits of the Swarm Logic cloud system The Swarm Stat program provides customers the benefits of the Swarm Logic cloud system, using data from smart thermostats, provided by manufacturers, such as Carrier and Honeywell. The Swarm Logic system works well with buildings in the range of 10,000 to 15,000 square feet, which might have 5 to 7 RTUs, and for commercial buildings that might have 20 or 30 RTUs. Energy savings are achieved with any system that has three RTUs or more. Swarm Logic includes a customer portal providing information on energy costs, RTU performance (including individual RTU operation data), and the overall building profile. Swarm IQ module analyzes data from the BAS An add-on module, Swarm IQ, analyzes data from the BAS, in order to provide additional insight, including trouble-shooting on thousands of units controlled by a typical end-user (such as a large retailer). Historically, problematic buildings or units were only identified when they developed an outage. In contrast, Swarm IQ can see the energy profile of a building and unit, and how long it takes to get to a temperature set point (which might suggest an imminent problem). System-wide analysis System-wide analysis of a large enterprise’s various locations can target the ‘10 worst-performing sites’, for example. In effect, the system creates actionable data that promotes a proactive approach to maintaining the efficient operation of RTUs. “We work with customers to enable them to be more predictive about their maintenance and avoid expensive truck rolls, which include additional charges in case of an emergency,” said Ana-Paula Issa, adding “If you know a unit is going to fail, you can take care of the issue as part of maintenance.” Swarm IQ also enables customers to spend their maintenance dollars more efficiently. A key to Encycle’s success is a close partnership with customers.” Ana-Paula Issa concludes, “When it comes to customers, we want to be a good partner. We’re not just trying to drive energy savings and carbonization goals. We listen to customers; we are driven by customer requests. We have developed the tools we have working with customers and respond to their requests. We have a happy relationship with customers who come on board.”