Gas Engine-driven Heat Pump (GHP) Cold Climate Field Demonstration
Abstract
Gas engine-driven heat pumps (GHPs) are an emerging space conditioning technology for multizone commercial buildings. GHPs have potential to reduce peak electric demand, energy use, and lifecycle costs compared to conventional equipment. This demonstration was a side-by-side comparison of two variable refrigerant flow (VRF) technologies, a GHP and an electric cold climate heat pump (CCHP), paired with a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS). Based on measured data, the GHP/DOAS system reduced peak electric demand by up to 59 kW (90%) compared to the baseline VAV system, and by up to 30 kW (82%) compared to the CCHP/DOAS. Despite lower than expected part-load performance, the GHP/DOAS life-cycle costs were 4% lower than CCHP/DOAS and 37% lower than the baseline. Both VRF systems improved comfort along with significant energy savings, lower peak electric demand, and potential savings in life-cycle costs compared to conventional VAV systems. The demonstration also identified operational issues for both heat pump technologies in this application.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1135231
Entities
People
- Alex Fridlyand
- David Schroeder
- Patricia F. Rowley
- Ramanathan Dharmarajan
- Shawn Scott
Organizations
- Gas Technology Institute