The IEA HPT Project 65 has published its Task 1 Report, focusing on the integration of circular economy principles into the domestic heat pump industry. This report is a collaborative effort involving participants from Denmark, Germany, and Italy, aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the transition to a circular economy.

The report examines key areas such as the evaluation of material efficiency standards, the impact of regulations like Ecodesign and REACH, lifecycle analyses of heat pumps, and case studies showcasing innovative circular design measures. Highlighted findings emphasize the need for adapting existing international standards, such as ISO 59000 and EN 4555X, to heat pumps, and the importance of harmonized lifecycle data for better decision-making. Practical examples include material substitutions, alternative refrigerants, and digital solutions like machine learning for fault detection.

This report acts as a starting point for further exploration into the intersection of domestic heat pumps and circular economy principles. By fostering international collaboration, utilizing regulatory frameworks, and adopting innovative approaches, the heat pump sector can advance significantly towards achieving sustainability and aligning with circular economy goals.

The Task 1 report can be accessed here: Task 1 report