Rinnai promotes hybrid heating as a pathway to net‑zero commercial buildings

Rinnai Director Chris Goggin says hybrid heating and hot‑water systems combine two power sources—typically natural gas or LPG with solar‑thermal or a heat‑pump—to cut fuel costs and support climate‑change goals. The approach is aimed at commercial retrofits where limited electricity supply, space constraints and high upfront costs make full electrification difficult. Hybrid controllers optimise operation based on outside temperature, current energy prices and demand, providing a base‑load from the renewable source and topping up with gas when needed. Goggin notes financial benefits from lower energy bills and reduced capital outlay, as well as greater operational resilience, while offering a step‑by‑step route toward eventual full decarbonisation as grid capacity and renewable technologies improve.