ET22SWE0035 - Multifamily In-Unit Heat Pump
VEIC proposes to conduct a market study to assess the market opportunity and technology performance of variable speed, high-efficiency in-unit/window heat pumps in multifamily buildings for use for direct replacement of inefficient window and packaged terminal air conditioning (PTAC) units for California multifamily buildings. Additional design options including low-GWP refrigerants, defined in the NY/CEE specifications targeting this opportunity as R-32 and CO2, will also be assessed. The 2021 NY Clean Heat for All Challenge RFP included low GWP refrigerants as an optional criteria - not a requirement - for manufacturer window heat pumps. Our market study would assess the adoption, availability, costs and impact (energy and GWP) of low GWP heat pump models compatible with multifamily in-unit applications.The project will define and quantify the potential opportunity for this technology in California through detailed analysis and building energy modeling as the first step to look for opportunities to bring these new, alternative clean heating and cooling electric technologies into the energy efficiency and demand-side management programs. Baseline and high efficiency measure research will include 120V and 240V supply equipment, as well as in-wall configurations. Throughout this project we will review the growing knowledge about these products by coordinating closely with national and other state-wide initiatives and California programs such as TECH Clean CA, Building Initiative for Low-Emissions Development (BUILD) Program, CA Market Transformation Program, and the EPIC grant program in which the San Francisco based Treau, Inc. received an EPIC grant for their Gradient system development which now is available for pre-order. Additional vendors will include Midea, who along with Treau was selected through the NY Clean Heat for All Challenge, as well as other window and alternative in- wall manufacturers (e.g. Ephoca) identified in the initial project market research.
This report examines the market opportunity and technology performance of 120-volt and 240-volt (120V/240V) variable speed, high-efficiency in-unit heat pumps for use in direct replacement of less efficient room air conditioning units and displacing or replacing in-unit gas or electric heating in California multifamily buildings. The market opportunity and technology performance are examined and informed through a review of the existing multifamily building stock in California and a technical review of new in-unit heat pump solutions, building energy modeling, and interviews with key market stakeholders including manufacturers, multifamily program implementers, consultants and property managers, and national, regional, and state level energy efficiency organizations.
The findings from this study identified specific market and technical barriers and opportunities to guide future market development actions to accelerate the adoption of low global warming potential (GWP), in-unit heat pumps with a focus on affordable housing applications for both new construction and existing housing.
