Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System TechnologyIEA EBC Annex 98 - IEA EBC Annex 98 - Flexibilization and optimization of heat pump systems in building stock through digitalization.
The focus for restructuring energy systems is increasingly shifting worldwide toward more efficient use of energy and greater expansion and use of renewable energies. This is leading to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector and a decrease in dependence on fossil fuels and their imports. In addition, the ongoing revolution in the introduction of digital technologies in all areas of life, including building operations, offers new opportunities to address the challenges ahead with intelligent methods.
The digital transformation of heat pump systems, anchored by robust data integration and real-time control, represents a decisive step toward more efficient and sustainable heat supply for residential buildings. By combining advanced technological innovations with a rigorous assessment of economic, regulatory, and market-related factors, this project sets a new benchmark in the optimization of heat pump systems in residential buildings, with a particular focus on the secondary side of space heating and domestic hot water preparation.
International cooperation activities demonstrate the efficient application of heat pump technologies in new energy systems and buildings, and develop solutions for improved energy security and increased use of renewable energies. In addition, specific solutions for a sector-coupled energy system and affordable solutions for supplying buildings with heating and cooling energy, with a focus on heat pump technology, are to be developed in close cooperation with other TCPs (Technology Cooperation Programs). This will lead to further savings in primary energy, increased flexibility in energy use, and greater sustainability in building heating.
As further details are refined and new empirical data is collected, the project will continuously update its methods to ensure that every element, from the overall objectives to detailed work tasks, remains consistent with the results of international energy research initiatives. Increased collaboration with international projects, such as IEA DHC Annex TS9, will help to further drive innovation and create the framework for broader implementation in buildings and urban systems.
- Building on this motivation, the project pursues the following objectives:
- Raising awareness of the advantages of digitizing heat pump systems in residential buildings, with a focus on secondary-side system components, and disseminating the findings.
- To evaluate non-technical barriers and enabling factors, such as business models, legal regulations, or subsidies, for the digitalization of heat pump systems (including the secondary side).
The IEA EBC Annex 98 project – Flexibilization and optimization of heat pump systems in existing buildings through digitalization – is being carried out as part of the International Energy Agency (IEA) program IEA EBC (Energy in Buildings and Communities).
