German researchers develop specialized heat pump technologies

Research initiatives in Germany are advancing heat pump technologies to facilitate the decarbonization of heating systems. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, in collaboration with a consortium of twenty companies, has developed solution concepts for replacing gas and oil heating in existing multi-family residential buildings using propane (R290) as a refrigerant.

The research indicates that no single solution fits all scenarios; instead, heating upgrades must be tailored to building size, available space, heating systems, and noise protection requirements. Proposed models include apartment-specific installations as well as centralized heat pumps for both indoor and outdoor placement.

In a separate development, CeH4 Technologies, working with the University of Duisburg-Essen, is developing a heat pump specifically designed for highly dynamic load changes within gas infrastructures. This technology aims to respond to fluctuating gas consumption patterns. The development process utilizes a new climate chamber at GWI to test complete systems under realistic environmental conditions, such as varying temperatures and humidity, to ensure efficiency and reliability.