The Thermal Balancing Act (Presentation)

This project involved a state-funded study that evaluated opportunities to implement heat pump technology for manufacturing facilities in Minnesota. The project team aims to address opportunities for higher temperature applications. The largest market resistance to the application of industrial heat pumps is spark spread, which can be overcome as a function of thermal process signatures, equipment design and selection, and organizational priorities.

Representatives from the project team presented on this subject at the ACEEE 2025 Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Industry, July 16–18. The study generated screening criteria for industrial heat pump opportunities, selected pilot sites for implementation, and designed incentives for beneficial applications. The team found heat pump opportunities at each of six unique industrial site types. The team also estimated technical potential in the state of Minnesota through interviews with manufacturers, energy and design consultants, and plant management staff.

This project is supported by a grant from the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources through the Conservation Applied Research and Development (CARD) program, which is funded by Minnesota ratepayers.