Decarbonising HVAC

At that time of year, we encounter numerous “Sustainability Reports” issued by businesses due to compliance requirements. These conglomerates’ decarbonisation goals focus on reducing both operational and embodied carbon. Operational carbon refers to emissions generated during a building’s use stage, while embodied carbon encompasses emissions over the entire life cycle of the building. Modifying HVAC systems can significantly contribute to achieving these goals.

When we talk about decarbonisation, the Paris Agreement is a global commitment to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. This landmark initiative aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by the second half of the 21st century, with countries worldwide working together to transition toward a more sustainable future. India has been an active participant in the agreement. However, as per a recent report by The Indian Express, India will likely miss the February 10 deadline for submitting its next round of climate action plans under the Paris Agreement. These plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), outline the specific climate actions countries intend to implement up to 2035. While many nations prepare to submit their updated commitments, India is still finalising its strategy. Reports suggest that the country’s revised NDC might only be submitted in the second half of the year, reflecting the complexities involved in shaping long-term climate policies.

Despite this delay, India remains committed to the broader vision of decarbonisation. So, what role does HVAC play in decarbonising the globe, and how can alterations in these systems help nations achieve this goal?

We all know that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India is headquartered in the heart of New Delhi, the Indira Paryavaran Bhawan. More than its namesake, the department is leading with an example by being India’s first net-zero energy building. It stands as a testament to the potential of decarbonising HVAC systems. This state-of-the-art facility has integrated cutting-edge HVAC solutions. The building has a chilled beam system, a geothermal heat exchange network, and passive design strategies for reducing its reliance on conventional cooling methods, slashing carbon emissions while maintaining optimal indoor comfort. This success story is a wake-up call for industries and commercial buildings across India to adopt low-carbon HVAC technologies. Energy demands are increasing, and the transition to sustainable heating and cooling solutions is imperative.

Energy-efficient HVAC

Learning from the already-in-action building, investing in energy-efficient HVAC systems is a fundamental step toward reducing carbon emissions. Dr D. B. JANI, Associate Professor at Government Engineering College, Gujarat Technological University, shares, “Upgrading your current system to one that utilises advanced technologies, such as variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, high-efficiency heat pumps, or geothermal heat pumps, can enhance energy efficiency. These systems optimise heating and cooling processes, leading to substantial energy savings and a reduced carbon footprint.”

Regular HVAC system maintenance and optimisation are vital for optimal performance and energy efficiency. Schedule routine inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups to ensure that your system operates at its peak efficiency. Regularly replace air filters, check refrigerant levels, and calibrate thermostats to maximise energy savings. Promptly addressing maintenance needs can prevent potential issues, minimise energy waste, and reduce carbon emissions. Embracing renewable energy sources is a crucial aspect of reducing the carbon footprint of commercial buildings. 

Advancing technologies

Recent advancements in the HVAC industry have centred around energy efficiency, improved air quality, and automation. Technologies like Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems, advanced chiller designs, and high-efficiency filters have emerged. Smart HVAC systems utilising IoT for real-time monitoring and control revolutionise building management. These innovations improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort, which is essential in environments like data centres. Vaibhav Pitale, managing director of India and South West Asia at Belimo Automation India Pvt. Ltd.

Implementing district cooling systems lowers buildings’ overall carbon footprint by centralising and streamlining cooling operations. Additionally, encouraging the adoption of heat pumps for heating and cooling offers a highly efficient alternative to traditional systems, with considerably lower emissions, making them a vital component of sustainable HVAC solutions.

Smart technology and IoT

New industrial IoT technology can help the owners of HVAC industrial facilities streamline operations, monitor environmental conditions, keep better track of key resources and potentially slash carbon emissions. For example, a warehouse may use IoT to automate the management of its HVAC system and lighting to help make these systems more energy-efficient. IoT devices help HVAC industries to become more energy-efficient. Smart home HVAC systems and environmental monitors are all examples of how IoT technology is helping to cut carbon emissions. Intelligent HVAC systems can control the temperatures of a building to maintain the desired feel for optimum comfort from remote locations. Innovative HVAC systems’ timely responses and ability to automatically alter a room’s temperature make it more energy-efficient, leading to a sustainable living environment. Remote commercial HVAC system troubleshooting and diagnosis capabilities to take for repairs and early diagnosis also help them shorten repair turnarounds.

Renewable energy sources

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are essential for decarbonising the HVAC industry by reducing dependence on fossil fuels, says Abhishek Sarmah, Head of the IAQ Business Group at Delta Electronics India Private Limited. Integrating solar panels into HVAC systems allows homes and businesses to generate electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on conventional energy sources. Research indicates that adopting solar energy for HVAC can lead to a 40% decrease in energy consumption and a 50% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

Clean energy solutions, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, provide an environmentally friendly alternative as they generate electricity without producing greenhouse gases or pollution. One effective way to leverage these renewable sources in HVAC systems is using air-source heat pumps. These systems transfer heat from one place to another using electricity, offering a highly efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional gas or oil-based heating methods. Remarkably, heat pumps can be up to 300% more efficient than conventional heating systems, making them an ideal choice for reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints.

Another impactful approach is using solar energy for HVAC operations. Solar power generates electricity, so homes and commercial spaces can significantly lower their reliance on fossil fuels while curbing emissions. Studies show that solar-powered HVAC systems can slash energy use by up to 40% and carbon dioxide emissions by 50%, making them a game-changer for a sustainable future.

Low-GWP refrigerants

HVAC systems with high global warming potential (GWP) invariably add to greenhouse gases, triggering climate change. The very common hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) used in the systems can be considered an environmental threat, so transitioning to low GWP can significantly offer eco-friendly solutions. Varun Pahwa, President of Desiccant Rotors International, shares, “Opting for natural refrigerants like hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, ammonia, HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins), etc. can reduce carbon emissions and also exercise economy in energy usage. Taking the offering a step further, industry players are also focusing on bringing about the confluence of HFOs and HFCs to amplify the mitigation of GWP.”   

Material, design, and eco-friendly insulation for HVAC systems

Material, design, and eco-friendly insulation selection affect the variables of heat loss or gain and reduce the overall energy demand for heating and cooling.

Shabbir Kanchwala, Principal at Global Network For Zero, shares that high-performance insulation materials reduce heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments, helping HVAC systems operate efficiently. Another important advancement is low-emissivity (Low-E) windows and smart glass. Low-E coatings on windows help to reduce heat transfer, keeping buildings warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Smart glass can adjust its transparency based on external conditions, reducing reliance on artificial climate control and enhancing energy savings.

Airtight building envelopes contribute to HVAC efficiency by preventing air leaks. The eco-friendly sealing materials ensure sustainable envelopes while improving insulation and reducing HVAC energy consumption. Sustainable sealants and vapour barriers made from non-toxic, biodegradable materials help with insulation and improve indoor air quality.

Recyclable and low-carbon-footprint materials for HVAC systems reduce their environmental impact. Using sustainable materials such as recycled aluminium and bamboo-based composites reduces HVAC systems’ carbon footprint. Choosing locally sourced materials lowers emissions associated with transportation.

Proper insulation reduces heat transfer between the building envelope and the external environment, decreasing the load on HVAC systems. This decreases system runtime and energy demand, enabling buildings to meet energy efficiency standards such as LEED, Passive House, and ASHRAE 90.1.

In addition to performance, sustainable and eco-friendly insulation materials are important for net-zero compliance. These materials include recycled denim and cellulose (made from recycled paper) and renewable and biodegradable options like sheep wool, cork, and hemp. Bio-based foams made from plant oils instead of petrochemicals are also popular. Using these materials helps lower the embodied carbon in buildings and supports compliance with green building certifications. 

Decarbonisation in the HVAC industry is crucial to reducing GHG emissions, improving energy efficiency, and supporting global climate goals. The transition to low-carbon HVAC solutions requires a mix of technological innovation, policy support, and industry-wide collaboration.

One strategy is the shift toward low-carbon and renewable energy sources through the electrification of HVAC systems. Air-source, ground-source, and water-source heat pumps offer high efficiency and zero on-site emissions, contributing to a cleaner energy future.

Embracing a circular economy and sustainable manufacturing practices is essential for the HVAC industry’s decarbonisation. Designing HVAC systems for longevity and recyclability ensures that components can be upgraded or repaired instead of replaced, reducing waste. The increased use of recycled materials in HVAC equipment production further minimises environmental impact. Furthermore, end-of-life management and refrigerant recovery reduce the carbon footprint of HVAC systems throughout their lifecycle.

Governments, businesses, and consumers must collaborate to accelerate the transition and ensure that future HVAC solutions align with global net-zero targets.

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Quotes-

Vaibhav Pitale, Managing Director India and South West Asia at Belimo Automation India Pvt. Ltd.

“Many leading data centre operators are committing to 100 percent renewable energy, enabling them to minimise emissions associated with their energy consumption. Moreover, advancements in cooling technologies, such as direct liquid cooling and improved airflow management, help reduce the energy intensity of data centre operations.”

Shabbir Kanchwala, Principal at Global Network For Zero 

“AI-driven HVAC systems optimise operations by using real-time data and making adjustments, leading to significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.”

Varun Pahwa, President, Desiccant Rotors International 

“Opting for natural refrigerants like hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, ammonia, HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins), etc. can reduce carbon emissions and exercise economy in energy usage. Taking the offering a step further, industry players are also focusing on bringing about the confluence of HFOs and HFCs to amplify the mitigation of GWP.”

Abhishek Sarmah, Head of the IAQ Business Group at Delta Electronics India Private Limited

“Adopting renewable energy sources like solar and wind to power HVAC systems reduces our reliance on fossil fuels and significantly cuts the carbon emissions, making way for a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.”

Dr. D. B. JANI, Associate Professor at Government Engineering College, Gujarat Technological University

“Investing in energy-efficient HVAC systems and IoT-driven smart technology will push the drive to reduce carbon emissions, optimise energy use, and create a more sustainable future for industrial and commercial spaces.”