Future of Heat Pumping Technologies and Energy Efficiency: Insights from the HPT TCP National Workshop at CRIEPI in Japan
The Technology Collaboration Programme on Heat Pumping Technologies (HPT TCP) by IEA held its Executive Committee meeting on May 15-16, 2024, in Yokohama, Japan. This pivotal event brought together industry leaders, researchers, and policy makers to discuss advancements, strategies, and future directions for heat pump technologies.
During the meeting, the Japanese ExCo delegates organised a national workshop and a tour of the CRIEPI (Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry) facility, which provided a comprehensive overview of the advancements and strategic directions in heat pump technologies and energy efficiency and decarbonization policies. This event highlighted significant strides being made in Japan and across Asia, and here are some of the key takeaways.
Delegates, Operating Agents and invited guests to the HPT TCP ExCo meeting visiting CRIEPI.
The visit started with a tour of selected laboratories of CRIEPI. The attendees got the chance to see where the Eco-Cute (heat pump for domestic hot water heating using CO2 as the refrigerant) was born and the first prototype, the R&D facility for industrial and commercial heat pumps and for steam compression, the air heat exchanger test facility and the climatic chamber where RAC (Room Air Conditioners) are evaluated.
First prototype of the Eco-Cute heat pump for domestic hot water heating, using CO2 as refrigerant.
Thereafter followed the workshop, which was introduced by the HPT TCP Chairman Stephan Renz presenting the HPT TCP to the invited guests. Then Mr. Hayashi, Director of the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), discussed Japan’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Heat pumps are identified as a critical technology to achieve this target. Approximately 35% of households in Japan are single-occupancy, and Japan’s has a similar population density as seen in Belgium. The Top Runner Program was highlighted as a key initiative, harmonising energy labels to enhance energy efficiency across appliances, supported by subsidies for heat pump adoption. Additionally, Japan’s market sees about 10 million air conditioning units sold annually, underscoring the importance of energy-efficient technologies. Research and development efforts are focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling, particularly in developing high-temperature heat pump absorption chillers.
A standout case study from the workshop was the Solei-Yu Zero Energy House (ZEH) model introduced by Mitsubishi Estate Residence Co., Ltd. This innovative model utilises surplus photovoltaic (PV) power generation and integrates five-surface insulation, solar PV, and heat pump water heaters controlled by the Ecocute system. These combined technologies contribute significantly to achieving carbon neutrality, showcasing a practical approach to sustainable living.
Professor Yamamoto from Tohoku University emphasised the importance of recognising ambient heat as renewable energy, as it is in the EU and Japan. However, only the EU currently includes it in energy statistics. Proper accounting of ambient heat is crucial for reflecting actual heat use and demand, which can drive more informed policy decisions and energy management strategies.
Mr. Akihiro Watanabe from the Heat Pump & Thermal Storage Technology Center of Japan discussed the collaborative efforts within the Asian Heat Pump & Thermal Storage Technology Network. This network includes representatives from China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, and India, who share information and policy recommendations. The network organises annual workshops and seminars to promote heat pump technologies across Asia, fostering regional collaboration and innovation.
Industrial heat pumps in Japan face market challenges due to the increasing price ratio of electricity to gas, which has risen from 2.1 to 3.0. As a result, customers now require a Coefficient of Performance (COP) greater than 4 for investment recovery. Mr Kaida highlighted that A1 or A2L refrigerants are preferred, with HFOs classified as green by the government. Case studies in bioethanol and dextran production demonstrated significant COP values but also highlighted the need for more customer engagement and process innovation.
Dr. Toshiya Iwammatsu presented an experimental study focused on inhibiting Legionella bacteria in pressurised tanks. This study aimed to increase the efficiency of domestic hot water (DHW) heat pumps by reducing the required temperature by 10K, resulting in a 10% improvement in COP. This research is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency and safety of heat pump technologies.
Looking ahead, the workshop discussed several future projects, including the ongoing development of Eco-Cute systems. These systems are designed to consume surplus PV power during peak generation hours (9 AM to 4 PM), promoting the spread of renewable energy. Additionally, new leasing services for solar PV and OHISAMA ECOCUTE are being introduced to facilitate wider adoption of these technologies.
In conclusion, the National Workshop CRIEPI highlighted the significant progress in heat pump technologies and energy policies in Japan and across Asia. With ambitious goals for decarbonisation by 2050 and innovative projects like Solei-Yu and Eco-Cute, the future looks promising for sustainable energy solutions. Collaborative efforts and continuous advancements in technology and policy will be key to achieving these goals. This workshop not only showcased the progress made but also set the stage for future innovations and collaborations that will drive the world towards a more energy-efficient and sustainable future.