Next-gen heat pump could cut energy bills and carbon emissions

Researchers from the University of Glasgow have developed a new type of heat pump, a flexible heat pump technology, which could help households save on their energy bills and contribute towards net-zero emissions goals. Heat pumps are a low-carbon alternative to gas boilers. They draw energy from external low temperature sources, most commonly outdoor air, in order to heat indoor spaces. When powered by renewable sources of power, they are significantly more environmentally friendly than conventional gas boilers. However, the heating capacity and energy efficiency of the current generation of heat pumps can be impacted by cold weather, particularly for air source heat pumps. High capital and operational costs and relatively low heat supply temperature have limited the growth of their takeup in the UK. Innovations are urgently needed to improve the cost-effectiveness of heat pumps to compete with fossil-fuel-based heating technologies.