Events

U.S. Department of Energy and Partner Lab, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, to Present at National HVACR Education Conference

September 23, 2024
The HVAC Excellence National HVACR Education Conference, to be held March 16-19, 2025, at the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, is set to feature a series of transformative sessions led by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). These sessions will focus on the latest DOE initiatives and resources designed to equip HVACR educators, trainers, and industry professionals with the knowledge needed to capitalize on new opportunities in the rapidly evolving HVACR landscape.
U.S. Department of Energy Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge

In 2023, the DOE launched the Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge to enhance heat pump performance in low outdoor temperatures. Partnering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), and leading heat pump manufacturers, DOE aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of next-generation Cold Climate Heat Pumps (CCHPs) to meet consumer comfort and efficiency needs in cold climate regions across North America.

Attendees will gain insights into the results of the Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge, the latest CCHP applications, and a DOE tool designed to guide contractors through the decision-making process for cold climate heat pumps.

Presenters: Dr. Payam Delgoshaei, Jamie Kono, Alek Parsons

Learning Objectives:

·     Describe the characteristics of a cold climate heat pump.

·     Understand the currently available cold climate heat pump technology.

·     Explain the improved performance of equipment developed for the DOE Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge.
Grow Your Heat Pump Program with Department of Energy Resources and Recognition

This session will explore DOE’s resources and recognition programs, such as the Energy Skilled recognition program, designed to support HVACR training programs focused on next-generation variable speed heat pumps. The session will also discuss strategies for recruiting new students into HVACR programs.

Presenters: Jenny Wiedower, Bruce Matulich, Meghan McNulty

Learning Objectives:

·     Describe available heat pump resources on the Building Science Education website.

·     Explain the DOE Energy Skilled recognition program.

·     List strategies for recruiting new students into HVAC.
Quantity vs. Quality? Maintaining Quality While Scaling Heat Pump Deployment

To meet DOE’s decarbonization goals, the rate of heat pump installations must increase tenfold by 2030. This session will address the critical challenge of maintaining or improving installation quality while scaling deployment. The discussion will cover several DOE-funded initiatives aimed at ensuring quality installations during this rapid scale-up.

Speakers: Christian Valoria, Alexander Rees

Learning Objectives:

·     Explore the PNNL Quality Installation Tool.

·     Discuss CCX Systems.

·     Learn about Smart Diagnostic Tools and the STEP Campaign.
Heat Pump Decisions and Costs – Calculators for Contractors & Consumers

Understanding the cost implications of heat pumps is crucial for contractors and consumers. This session will introduce the RMI Green Upgrade Calculator, a tool designed to help determine potential utility cost savings when switching from gas furnaces to all-electric or dual fuel heat pumps. Additionally, the session will cover the DOE Cold Climate Heat Pump Decision Tool, which assists contractors in the design process for retrofitting fossil fuel systems.

Speakers: Alek Parsons, Ryan Shea

Learning Objectives:

·     Utilize the RMI Green Upgrade Calculator to determine heat pump cost savings.

·     Understand the GHG emissions impact of heat pump installations.

·     Utilize the DOE Cold Climate Heat Pump Decision Tool for retrofit options.
Registration

This year’s HVAC Excellence National HVACR Education Conference provides an unparalleled opportunity to hear directly from energy experts about DOE’s latest initiatives and tools. Whether you are leading a classroom of HVACR students or a contractor navigating the complexities of the Inflation Reduction Act, these sessions will provide invaluable insights to stay ahead in the industry.

Don’t miss this must-attend event! Register today at escogroup.org and join us in Las Vegas from March 16-19, 2025, to engage with nearly 100 sessions covering emerging technologies, next-generation refrigerants, and more.