CO2 heat pump achieves ecodesign mark - Cooling Post

NORWAY: Oslo-based heat pump manufacturer Tequs claims to be the first to achieve ecodesign certification for its high-temperature, water-to-water CO2 heat pumps.

Established in 2021, the certification covers all the company’s water-to-water heat pumps which extend from 17kW to 340kW. For larger projects, multiple units can be connected in prallel to achieve capacities of up to 5MW.

“Our CO2 heat pumps are now a game changer when it comes to retrofitting fossil heating systems to heat pumps,” said Tequs CEO Marius Hugo Sandem. “This achievement represents a major breakthrough for sustainable heating solutions, providing a greener and more cost-efficient future for everyone.”

Tequs explains that the original testing criteria are extremely demanding for CO2 heat pumps, as these pumps are most efficient at a low return temperature (preferably below 40°C) and large temperature lifts.

“Previously, meeting the requirements with a CO2 heat pump was considered impossible, something we decided to challenge,” the company said in a statement.

The criteria require, among other things, an SCOP of at least 2.6 throughout the test, starting from 47/55°C at 100% capacity, followed by runs at different partial loads and temperatures.

“Although this is not the optimal temperature range for CO2, we have nonetheless managed to achieve this result,” Tequs said.

On its website, the company also pays tribute to its partners, including Eliwell by Schneider Electric, Bitzer, Alfa Laval, Carel and Rivacold.

Tequs heat pumps boast a compact footprint, with widths ranging from 690mm to 890mm, making them easy to install even in spaces with limited space. They are controlled by the company’s proprietary TeqControl system.

Tequs will begin rolling out its products in Norway and plans to expand into Europe within the next year.

Tequs