Heat pumps represent a promising technology for electrifying buildings and pursuit of net-zero emissions, often boasting efficiencies that far exceed 100%. However, understanding the complexities beneath this apparent simplicity is crucial for their effective implementation. Mechanical efficiency, utility costs, electrical grid characteristics, and local climate are the key parameters which present real-life complications for owners and consultants evaluating their use. Therefore, a policy or a technical solution that works well for one building or geography, may have different potential for another. Consequently, the decision to use heat pumps in electrifying buildings presents a nuanced dilemma.

In response, this webinar proposes a comprehensive framework featuring simple equations tailored to aid the industry in making well-informed decisions regarding heat pump installation. These fundamental equations are easy to understand and will come with recommended tools to use them.

With this understanding, attendees will be able to perform analyses for their projects, potentially adding additional parameters as needed. This presentation will examine conditions that enable heat pumps to achieve high efficiencies and scenarios where performance may fall short, including those outlined above. Attendees will learn how these parameters interact to create various scenarios, not all of which will meet project goals. This nuanced understanding is vital for professionals aiming to leverage heat pump technology in the pursuit of energy-efficient and net-zero buildings.