HEAT PUMPS VS INSTANTANEOUS GAS HEATING SYSTEMS AND BOILERS: THE FUTURE OF LARGE-SCALE WATER HEATING

In high-rise apartments, commercial properties, and hospitals, large-scale water heating is an essential service. Traditionally, instantaneous gas heating systems and boilers have dominated this sector. However, as the push for energy efficiency and sustainability intensifies, heat pumps are becoming a more viable alternative for large-scale heating solutions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between heat pumps, gas heating systems, and boilers, and how combining heat pumps with thermal energy storage can offer a highly efficient, low-emission solution. Additionally, we’ll demonstrate how Asset Assess’s platform can assist in analysing retrofit projects to reduce operational costs and eliminate Scope 1 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

THE CASE FOR HEAT PUMPS OVER GAS HEATING SYSTEMS

Efficiency and Energy Re-capture Heat pumps are highly efficient systems that use electrical energy to move heat from one place to another. This efficiency stems from their ability to transfer heat rather than generate it, making them up to four times more efficient than traditional gas boilers. Heat pumps are especially beneficial in settings where both heating and cooling are required, such as hospitals and high-density apartment buildings.

For example, in a hospital environment, heat pumps can capture waste heat from cooling systems and repurpose it for water heating. Instead of releasing the waste heat into the atmosphere, a heat pump system recovers this energy, thereby reducing the overall demand for external heating. In contrast, gas heating systems and boilers burn fossil fuels to generate heat, with significant energy losses and GHG emissions.

Simultaneous Heating and Cooling One of the most compelling advantages of heat pumps is their ability to supply heating and cooling simultaneously. In high-rise apartments and hospitals, cooling is often needed for comfort while hot water is required for consumption. A heat pump system can extract heat from areas that need cooling and transfer it to heat water, optimising energy use. This dual-functionality makes heat pumps ideal for buildings with diverse temperature requirements, improving efficiency and reducing overall energy consumption.

Reducing Scope 1 Emissions Gas boilers and instantaneous gas heaters contribute to Scope 1 emissions, which are direct GHG emissions from on-site fuel combustion. By switching to heat pump technology, facilities can eliminate these on-site emissions, thereby reducing their overall carbon footprint. This is a critical step in meeting sustainability targets and adhering to evolving environmental regulations, particularly for healthcare and commercial properties that are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact.

THE ADVANTAGES OF COMBINING HEAT PUMPS WITH THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE

Maximising Energy Savings The integration of heat pumps with thermal energy storage (TES) can significantly amplify energy savings. Thermal storage systems allow facilities to store excess heat generated by heat pumps during off-peak hours or from energy recapture. This stored energy can then be used when demand is high, reducing the need for active heating during peak times. The ability to shift energy loads in this way not only improves the overall efficiency of the system but also helps to stabilise the grid and reduce energy costs.

For example, in a large commercial property or hospital, a TES system can store thermal energy during periods of low demand or when electricity prices are lower. When heating demand increases, the stored energy can be released to meet these needs, reducing the reliance on gas boilers or grid electricity. This strategic use of thermal storage allows facilities to lower their operational costs while making better use of renewable energy sources.

Lowering Grid Demand Heat pumps combined with TES can also lower the demand on the electricity grid, particularly during peak hours. By storing excess energy and using it when needed, these systems reduce the load on the grid, contributing to a more stable and sustainable energy infrastructure. This is particularly important in regions like Australia, where grid reliability can be a concern and renewable energy sources are increasingly integrated into the energy mix.

THE ROLE OF ASSET ASSESS IN RETROFITTING PROJECTS

Cost Analysis for Retrofit Projects One of the primary challenges of switching from gas boilers and instantaneous heaters to heat pump technology is the upfront capital cost of the retrofit. However, the long-term savings in energy costs, maintenance, and GHG emissions often outweigh the initial investment. Asset Assess’s platform can assist in conducting a detailed cost analysis for such projects, evaluating both the short-term and long-term financial benefits.

Our cloud-based analytics platform can model different scenarios, comparing the performance and costs of gas heating systems and boilers versus heat pumps. For instance, we can project how much energy will be saved by switching to a heat pump system, how energy costs will be reduced through thermal storage, and how long it will take to achieve payback on the initial investment. By offering detailed insights into operational efficiencies, energy consumption patterns, and maintenance requirements, the Asset Assess platform ensures that facility managers have a clear understanding of the financial and environmental benefits before proceeding with the retrofit.

Removal of Scope 1 Emissions from Site Eliminating Scope 1 emissions is a crucial part of the decarbonisation strategy for any facility. By replacing gas-fired boilers and heaters with heat pump technology, buildings can effectively remove these emissions from the site, contributing to cleaner air quality and helping to meet GHG reduction targets. With our analytics platform, you can track real-time data on emissions, energy usage, and efficiency improvements, providing tangible evidence of progress towards sustainability goals.

CONCLUSION: THE FUTURE OF WATER HEATING IN LARGE-SCALE FACILITIES

As the drive toward sustainable, energy-efficient buildings continues, heat pump technology presents an excellent alternative to traditional gas heating systems and boilers. Their ability to recapture waste energy, provide simultaneous heating and cooling, and integrate with thermal energy storage makes them an ideal solution for high-rise apartments, commercial properties, and hospitals.

Moreover, with the support of the Asset Assess platform, the financial viability of these retrofits becomes much clearer. From cost analysis to emissions tracking, our platform provides the data and insights necessary for informed decision-making, ensuring that your facility not only reduces its carbon footprint but also operates at peak efficiency. By transitioning to heat pump technology, facilities can remove Scope 1 GHG emissions, reduce energy costs, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

By combining heat pumps with thermal energy storage, facilities can further enhance their energy savings and operational efficiency, making it a smart choice for any large-scale property looking to future-proof its operations.