· 2 min read
illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Wired or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: A new generation of engineers is pushing the limits of heat pump efficiency, achieving remarkable performance levels
• For instance, Rob Ritchie's heat pump in the UK has a coefficient of performance (COP) of 5.5, far exceeding the national average of 2-3
🔭 The context: Heat pumps work by extracting heat from outdoor air, even on cold days, and can significantly reduce CO2 emissions
• Innovations and meticulous system designs have allowed some installations to achieve exceptional efficiency, crucial for the global shift away from fossil-fuel heating systems
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Heat pumps are pivotal in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change
• The International Energy Agency estimates they could cut global CO2 emissions by 500 million metric tons, equivalent to removing all cars in Europe from the roads
⏭️ What's next: Advancements in heat pump technology and increased adoption could drive further efficiencies and lower costs
• As more data becomes available, it will inform better designs and policies to enhance heat pump performance globally
💬 One quote: "Achieving a COP of 5 or above is absolutely incredible," says Emma-Louise Bennett from Viessmann, the company behind Ritchie's heat pump
📈 One stat: Rob Ritchie's heat pump delivers 5.5 kilowatt-hours of heat for every kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed, highlighting its high efficiency
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