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Advancing Sustainability: Insights from the Annex 54 "Heat pump systems with low Global Warming Potential refrigerants" workshop

Annex 54 “Heat pump systems with low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants” has organised a successful workshop titled “Environmental and Performance Aspects of Low GWP Refrigerants for Heat Pump Applications” during the International Congress of Refrigeration (ICR) 2023, held at the Paris Congress Center. This workshop brought together leading experts in low-GWP refrigerants, providing valuable insights into their environmental impact and their applications in heat pumps.

The overarching goal of the workshop was to expedite the transition from high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants to low-GWP alternatives by disseminating the latest scientific and technological knowledge. This mission resonates deeply with the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), which is committed to the responsible use of non-ozone depleting and low-GWP refrigerants.

The workshop also emphasized the importance of safe and sustainable refrigerant use, a crucial aspect of the IIR’s mission. This initiative aligns closely with the objectives of both IIR and IEA HPT.

During the workshop, experts from around the world presented their cutting-edge research on various facets of low-GWP refrigerants in heat pump applications:

  1. Propane as Refrigerant for Heat Pump Water Heaters
    Presented by Kashif Nawaz, this session delved into the utilization of propane as a refrigerant in heat pump water heaters, showcasing its potential to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
  2. IEA HPT ANNEX 54 Activities
    Yunho Hwang provided insights into the ongoing activities and accomplishments of IEA HPT ANNEX 54, shedding light on collaborative efforts to promote sustainable heat pump systems.
  3. Low GWP Refrigerants: Environmental Aspects
    Samuel F. Yana Motta explored the environmental aspects of low-GWP refrigerants, encompassing both natural and synthetic options. This session emphasized the need for a holistic understanding of their impact.
  4. The Use of Opteon™XL20 in Residential Heat Pump Applications
    Samer Saab detailed the application of Opteon™XL20, highlighting its role in residential heat pumps and its contribution to sustainability in the residential sector.
  5. Environmental Aspects of HFOs: Metrics, Fate, and TFA
    Dimitrios K. Papanastasiou delved into the intricate metrics, fate, and implications of HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins), shedding light on their environmental considerations.
  6. Environmental and Performance Aspects of Low GWP Refrigerants for Large Capacity Water to Water Heaters
    Michael Petersen and Steve Kujak discussed the environmental and performance aspects of low-GWP refrigerants in large-capacity water-to-water heaters, showcasing their potential for large-scale applications.

The Annex 54 “Heat pump systems with low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants” workshop facilitated the exchange of critical knowledge and fostered collaboration between IIR and IEA HPT in areas of mutual interest. With the global commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the insights shared in this workshop play a pivotal role in advancing sustainability in refrigeration and heat pump technologies.