Solar Assisted HVAC Market Study

AESC proposes a market evaluation study of solar assisted heat pumps, a technology that promises to provide supplemental, carbon-free heating to any variable-speed pump air conditioner in the 2-ton to 10-ton range – and thus is applicable to residential split heat pumps and small commercial split and packaged heat pumps. The technology uses solar thermal energy to offset a portion of the thermal energy input to the refrigeration cycle that would normally be generated by the compressor. The technology usually consists of variable speed compressor, solar thermal collector, condenser, evaporator, and often combined with water heating that includes a storage tank. Depending on how much heat the solar radiation can provide, the compressor work is reduced accordingly.   Prior studies modeling technical performance have indicated a high potential for savings (10-14%) and one field study led to inconclusive results with the recommendation to conduct further testing in more targeted climate regions. Prior to funding additional field studies, the proposed market study will assess the market for commercial and pre-commercial technologies and manufacturers, assess the market size, opportunities, barriers, and feasibility, and will recommend specific field tests targeting climate zones that have the highest potential based on existing data.