Performance characterization and feasibility analysis of natural gas heat pumps for canadian weather conditions: experimental and numerical investigations

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Gas heat pumps (GHPs) are becoming cost competitive relative to electric heat pumps, and are being accepted in many countries as a viable alternative for space and water heating as well as for space cooling. GHPs are of two types, Gas Engine Heat Pump (GEHP) and Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP). GHPs are similar to air source heat pumps (ASHPs), except that a natural gas-fired engine and boiler are used in GEHP and GAHP, respectively, rather than an electric motor driven compressor. Usually, GHPs have better primary energy conversion efficiency than other building heating/cooling options. However their true techno-economic potentials could not be ascertain since no long-term performance data of GHPs is available in Canada. This project is intended to fill this knowledge gap. Union Gas and Enbridge recognize the potential utilization of GHPs in Canada and have planned this collaboration with Dr. Fung to investigate the performance and integration issues related to GHP development and implementation. This research involves study on the suitability, performance reliability, and constraints in GHP acceptance in Canada. The objectives will be achieved through experimental studies and computer simulations. Field performance data will be collected at three experimental sites to establish heating/cooling performance curves, energy intensity, primary energy conversion efficiency, GHG emissions, and cyclic characteristics of the systems. Simulation models will be developed and validated and then used for evaluation of site-specific benefits. Feasibility, sensitivity, and reliability analysis will be carried out since they are equally significant to demonstrate the relevance of GHPs in Canadian buildings. The project will provide deeper insight into the adoption and utilization of GHPs in Canada to facilitate the development of long-term business strategies of research partners. Conventional heat pump market is growing and the acceptance of GHPs will further accelerate this process. This research promotes advanced learning on this subject and builds a team of highly skilled personnel, and exploits the existing infrastructure and expertise to create a new facility for future research and training at Ryerson.