On 12 October 2026, IEA HTP Project 65 hosted a workshop at Chillventa Congress in Nuremberg, Germany. The event presented findings on existing circular practices, component recovery potential and barriers to implementation, followed by discussions on the opportunities and conditions needed to advance circularity across the heat pump value chain.
Circular opportunities exist, but challenges remain
Building on these findings, participants shared examples of circular practices already being implemented, including metal separation, magnet recycling and compressor refurbishment in larger-scale systems. The recovery of valuable materials, particularly copper and rare-earth elements, emerged as another promising opportunity. Urban mining and collaboration with related sectors, such as ventilation and fan manufacturing, were also identified as potential ways to strengthen recovery activities and create economies of scale, particularly in Europe.
However, technical feasibility does not guarantee economic viability. Complex dismantling, specialized expertise, international reverse logistics and high material refining costs were identified as significant barriers. Combined with high initial investments and uncertain returns, these challenges can discourage circular business models.
Designing for circularity in a changing technological landscape
The workshop also explored how technological developments could affect future component reuse. Changes in refrigerants, component designs and system dimensions may create compatibility challenges when reusing components in newer heat pump generations. Even technically functional components may no longer meet future system requirements, raising questions about their long-term reuse potential.
Potential regulatory constraints, including questions surrounding REACH, were also discussed, highlighting the importance of considering both technical compatibility and regulatory requirements.
Who should take responsibility for circularity?
Participants discussed how responsibilities and economic incentives could be shared across the heat pump value chain, including the possibility of linking heat pump take-back activities with existing refrigerant recovery and recycling processes.
The involvement of recyclers, operators, component suppliers and financial stakeholders was considered important. However, high investment costs and uncertain business cases for repair, refurbishment and remanufacturing remain major obstacles, reinforcing the need for coordinated approaches and economically viable circular solutions.
Turning discussion into action
The workshop reinforced that advancing circularity requires more than identifying opportunities for component reuse and material recovery. Technical feasibility, economic incentives, technological developments and collaboration across the value chain must all be considered to turn circular potential into practice.
Building on the work of Project 65, a follow-up project proposal has been submitted to further explore circularity in the heat pump sector, with particular attention to business opportunities, technological requirements and implementation challenges. Interested in participating or staying informed? Follow the link and fill in the form with your contact details to receive updates on the proposal’s approval status and potential next steps.
IEA HPT Project 65 thanks all workshop participants for their valuable contributions and looks forward to continuing the collaboration towards a more circular heat pump sector.