Supply Chain Engagement for Increasing Packaged Unitary Heat Pump System Adoption

This focused pilot aims to increase the adoption of Commercial Packaged Unitary Heat Pump systems (Commercial HP RTUs) ≥ 5.4 tons through a streamlined midstream pilot program. While Commercial HP RTUs have been on the market for decades, adoption in CA is lower than expected given the generally mild climate that is suitable for heat pump heating. Commercial HP RTUs can serve as a drop-in replacements for the thousands of RTU air conditioners currently installed in California.  The midstream pilot program aims to offer a higher incentive and a more streamlined application process than the existing statewide program. The program will address some of the barriers to participation identified in the most recent program evaluation including low incentives and complex data collection requirements. In addition, interviews will be conducted with program participants at all levels of the supply chain including manufacturers, distributors, contractors, design engineers, and end users to understand the barriers preventing heat pump adoption in CA, both real and imagined. The findings from this study will inform future program design and other initiatives in CA aimed at increasing heat pump adoption. Data gathered though this project may also inform updates to relevant test standards and codes such as AHRI 340/360 and Title 24, Part 6/