Articles tagged with "heat-pumps"
New York Build Expo: Heat Pumps Take Center Stage - CleanTechnica
At the New York Build Expo held at the Javits Center, heat pumps emerged as the central technology trend, akin to the prominence of AI at CES. Major industry players such as Midea, GE/Haier, Gree, Daikin, and Bosch showcased a wide variety of heat pump systems designed to meet diverse building needs, from window units and interior-only systems to residential outdoor units and industrial-scale solutions for high rises. These products addressed challenges like the lack of ductwork in older buildings, aesthetic considerations, and replacing traditional radiators. Complementary technologies focused on upgrading air handlers, plumbing, and building insulation to optimize heat pump efficiency, particularly given their lower temperature output compared to steam or combustion heating. A significant driver behind the heat pump emphasis is New York City’s Local Law 97, which imposes strict carbon emission limits on large buildings and levies substantial fines for non-compliance, incentivizing building owners to adopt cleaner heating technologies. The law’s impact is expected to influence other regions
energyheat-pumpsclean-technologyHVACbuilding-insulationrenewable-energyenergy-efficiency‘Distributed energy resources’ like EVs and heat pumps could reduce 10% of peak electricity demand in B.C.: study - Clean Energy Canada
A recent study by Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors, commissioned by Clean Energy Canada, highlights the significant potential of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as electric vehicles (EVs), heat pumps, and efficient water heaters to reduce peak electricity demand in British Columbia (B.C.) by over 10% by 2040. DERs are customer-connected technologies capable of generating, storing, or flexibly managing energy demand, and when coordinated by utilities, they form “virtual power plants” (VPPs) that offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional infrastructure expansion. The study emphasizes that prioritizing DERs can help B.C. meet rising electricity demand driven by electrification while supporting decarbonization goals and saving ratepayers money. The report examines three scenarios: a reference case aligned with BC Hydro’s current plans, an accelerated electrification scenario, and a DER-centric scenario combining rapid electrification with expanded DER programs. Even under the reference scenario, DERs could reduce peak load by
energydistributed-energy-resourceselectric-vehiclesheat-pumpsgrid-reliabilityvehicle-to-griddecarbonization4 Takeaways From The Nation’s Biggest Heat Pump Expo - CleanTechnica
The article summarizes key insights from the nation’s largest heat pump expo held in Las Vegas, focusing on innovations in heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) for residential and commercial use. A wide range of residential HPWHs were showcased by numerous manufacturers including GE, Bradford White, LG, Navien, Rheem, and others, with many companies emphasizing their strong commitment to the technology. While few entirely new models debuted, several brands introduced significant updates or recently entered the market, such as Navien’s dual fuel heat pump with gas backup and Noritz’s new tankless HPWH. Commercial heat pump water heaters also featured prominently, with many boiler manufacturers unveiling various central HPWH configurations, refrigerants, and sizes tailored to different building needs. Notable innovations included cascading central HPWH systems and smaller capacity units slated for release. Additionally, air-to-water heat pumps, which can provide both space heating and hot water, were highlighted as a growing trend, with companies like Mitsubishi, Daikin, Samsung
energyheat-pumpswater-heatersHVACrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyclean-technologyOregon Adopts New Building Codes to Reduce Energy Costs and Increase Energy Efficiency in Newly Constructed Homes - CleanTechnica
Oregon’s Residential and Manufactured Structures Board (RMSB) has approved updates to the state’s residential energy code requiring new homes to use energy-efficient heat pumps instead of traditional ducted air conditioning. This change is expected to save residents an average of $125 per month, or over $1,700 annually, on energy bills. The update aims to improve comfort, affordability, and resilience in new homes while reducing pollution by relying more on clean heating technologies and cutting energy waste. Heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling, helping to address rising energy costs and increasing household energy burdens across the state. The code update aligns with Oregon’s broader energy strategy to achieve reliable, affordable, and clean energy, and has received support from building professionals, elected officials, and climate organizations. It allows heat pumps to serve as the primary heating source, with methane gas permitted only for supplemental heating to ease grid demand during peak periods. This move brings Oregon’s building standards closer to those of California and Washington, supporting the state
energyenergy-efficiencyheat-pumpsbuilding-codesresidential-energyclean-energyenergy-savingsOregon Adopts New Building Codes to Reduce Energy Costs and Increase Energy Efficiency in Newly Constructed Homes - CleanTechnica
Oregon’s Residential and Manufactured Structures Board (RMSB) has approved updates to the state’s residential energy code requiring new homes to be built with energy-efficient heat pumps instead of traditional ducted air conditioning. This change is projected to save homeowners an average of $125 per month, or over $1,700 annually, on energy bills. The update aims to improve comfort, affordability, and resilience in new homes by reducing energy waste and reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with Oregon’s broader goals for clean, reliable, and affordable energy. The new code allows heat pumps to serve as the primary heating source, with methane gas permitted only for supplemental heating to help manage peak grid loads. The update has garnered support from building professionals, elected officials, and environmental organizations like the Sierra Club and Earth Advantage, who emphasize its role in advancing state decarbonization, climate resilience, and housing affordability. The code also brings Oregon’s building standards closer to those of neighboring states California and Washington, reflecting a regional
energyenergy-efficiencyheat-pumpsbuilding-codesresidential-energyclean-energyenergy-savingsQuilt's Paul Lambert on Making Heat Pumps Cool (and Smart) - CleanTechnica
The article highlights an interview with Paul Lambert, CEO of Quilt, featured on CleanTechnica’s CleanTech Talk podcast. Lambert discusses Quilt’s innovative approach to making heat pumps more appealing and efficient, aiming to significantly accelerate their adoption in U.S. single-family homes. Quilt’s heat pumps boast sleek designs, over 25 SEER2 efficiency, and smart software that improves system performance over time. Lambert emphasizes the environmental impact potential, noting that widespread heat pump adoption could be equivalent to removing 32 million cars from the road, but stresses the need to increase the current adoption rate tenfold by 2030. Additionally, the article covers Quilt’s rapid growth strategy, including a recent $20 million Series B funding round and the introduction of a new 3-zone heat pump system. The conversation between Lambert and CleanTechnica’s Scott Cooney delves into the intersection of technology innovation and clean energy solutions, underscoring Quilt’s mission to make heat pumps both “cool” and smart. The article
energyheat-pumpsenergy-efficiencysmart-technologyHVACrenewable-energyclean-technologyFrom Airports to Elementary Schools, New Examples of Geothermal Heating & Cooling Sites Emerge - CleanTechnica
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Geothermal has expanded its Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP) Case Study Yearbook with five new examples of geothermal heating and cooling systems across the United States. These case studies, developed by the National Laboratory of the Rockies in collaboration with the respective sites, highlight diverse applications of GHP technology in residential communities, schools, airports, colleges, and grocery stores. The updated database now features over 20 documented locations demonstrating the effectiveness of GHPs in leveraging stable subsurface temperatures to reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling. Key new case studies include The Town at Trilith in Georgia, one of the largest geothermal residential communities with 750 homes using individual GHP systems, and Spring Mills Primary School in West Virginia, part of a district-wide upgrade that cut energy use by 75%. At Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, geothermal wells beneath the airfield support heating and cooling for the terminal, projected to save $400,000 annually. Central
energygeothermal-heatinggeothermal-coolingenergy-efficiencyrenewable-energyheat-pumpssustainable-buildingsGradient’s heat pumps get new smarts to enable old building retrofits
Gradient is developing advanced heat pump technology designed to retrofit old multifamily buildings, particularly those with outdated boiler systems common in cities like New York. Their horseshoe-shaped window units provide both heating and cooling without obstructing views, offering a cost-effective HVAC upgrade that can be installed quickly without electrical system overhauls. Gradient has piloted these systems in public housing in New York City and affordable housing in California, and is engaging with colleges to improve dormitory comfort amid rising temperatures. A key innovation is Gradient’s Nexus system, which allows building managers to set usage limits on heating and cooling to prevent energy overconsumption by residents, leading to significant energy savings—one example showed a 25% reduction in energy use after imposing a 78˚F heating cap. Additionally, Nexus can manage electrical load by reducing power draw on outlets with limited capacity and supports demand response strategies by adjusting cooling based on building conditions and sensor data. This approach aims to ease strain on the electrical grid during peak demand, making widespread
energyheat-pumpsbuilding-retrofitsHVACenergy-efficiencydemand-responsesmart-gridAquifer Thermal Energy System Comes To Minnesota - CleanTechnica
The article discusses the advantages and implementation of Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systems as an efficient and sustainable solution for heating and cooling. Unlike conventional air source heat pumps, which have limitations in extreme temperatures, ATES systems leverage the relatively stable temperature of groundwater year-round to provide consistent and efficient thermal energy. Research from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Imperial College London, analyzing over 3,000 ATES systems globally, found that these systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 74% compared to traditional methods. Additionally, the return on investment for ATES can be as short as two years, with infrastructure longevity extending beyond 80 years, making it a cost-effective and durable option. A practical example of this technology is underway in St. Paul, Minnesota, where Ever-Green Energy is developing an ATES system for the mixed-use Heights development. This system will extract thermal energy from an aquifer 300 to 500 feet underground to supply heating and cooling for 850 homes and
energygeothermal-energyheat-pumpsaquifer-thermal-energy-storagerenewable-energysustainable-heatingcooling-systemsClaims of a B.C. power shortage don’t hold up - Clean Energy Canada
The article from Clean Energy Canada challenges claims that British Columbia (B.C.) is facing an electricity shortage, arguing that such assertions are largely inaccurate. It highlights that B.C.’s electricity system is currently robust, especially with the full operation of the Site C dam, which has significantly boosted the province’s energy exports. BC Hydro, a Crown utility, has generated substantial revenue—$290 million from January to October—benefiting local ratepayers rather than foreign shareholders. The province’s electricity grid is also capable of accommodating increased demand from electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps, technologies that can lower overall grid demand and reduce costs for residents. The article refutes concerns that rapid adoption of EVs and heat pumps would strain the grid. BC Hydro’s modeling suggests that achieving the target of 90% EV sales by 2030 would only modestly increase electricity demand, indicating the grid can handle this transition. The authors emphasize that clean electricity is a key competitive advantage for B.C. and
energyclean-energyelectricity-gridBC-Hydroelectric-vehiclesheat-pumpsenergy-exportsOn Heat Pumps, Colorado Hits The Ground Running
Colorado is rapidly advancing its heat pump adoption through a newly launched home energy rebate program aimed at boosting energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Starting November 13, 2025, the Colorado Energy Office began offering rebates of up to $14,000 for heat pumps and other energy efficiency upgrades in existing single-family homes, with eligibility and rebate amounts varying by household income. The program also extends rebates to small multi-family buildings, mobile homes, factory-built homes, and larger multi-family residences. These rebates help offset the high upfront costs of installing heat pump HVAC systems, which are significantly more efficient and cost-effective for heating and cooling compared to traditional electric baseboard heaters or oil heat. In addition to the rebate program, Colorado’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) is supporting innovation in home decarbonization through competitive grants to startups like Zero Homes. This company has developed an app-based tool that helps homeowners estimate the costs and savings of switching to clean, all-electric systems such as heat
energyheat-pumpsenergy-efficiencyColorado-energy-rebateshome-decarbonizationHVAC-technologyclean-energy-programsA 15-Ton Rooftop Heat Pump Is Coming For Your Fossil Fuels
The article discusses the growing role of electric heat pumps in decarbonizing commercial buildings, highlighting advancements led by Carrier Global Corporation in the United States. Heat pumps are more efficient and economical than fossil-fueled heating and conventional electric systems, but their adoption was historically limited in colder climates due to efficiency losses. This challenge has been addressed through public-private partnerships initiated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), including the “Commercial Building HVAC Accelerator” program launched in April 2024, which aims to develop advanced rooftop units (RTUs) that significantly reduce energy use compared to conventional systems, with market-ready products expected by 2027. Carrier has emerged as a leader in this space, becoming the first original equipment manufacturer to complete the DOE’s laboratory validation stage for a new 10-14 ton commercial heat pump. This system meets or exceeds DOE requirements for heating capacity even in very cold temperatures (100% capacity at 5°F and over 70% at -10°F), promising
energyheat-pumpscommercial-HVACenergy-efficiencydecarbonizationrenewable-energyclean-technologyHeat pumps could cool BC without demanding too much power - Clean Energy Canada
The article highlights British Columbia’s growing challenge with increasingly intense heatwaves, which pose serious health risks, especially as 44% of households currently lack home cooling. Many residents rely on inefficient standalone air conditioners, driving up electricity demand and costs amid rising living expenses. At the same time, BC faces pressure to reduce emissions to combat climate change. Electric heat pumps emerge as a promising solution, providing both efficient cooling in summer and heating in winter, while filtering wildfire smoke and reducing emissions. New modeling commissioned by Clean Energy Canada shows that cold-climate air-source heat pumps could save households an average of $358 annually compared to natural gas systems, and over $1,000 compared to electric resistance heating. Province-wide, this could translate into $675 million in annual savings. Heat pump water heaters also offer the lowest-cost water heating option. Environmentally, switching all homes to electric heat pumps and water heating could cut emissions by 3.5 megatonnes annually, about 6% of BC’s total
energyheat-pumpsclean-energyelectric-heatingenergy-efficiencyemissions-reductionsustainable-technologySwitching all B.C. homes to heat pumps would save households $675 million a year while reducing grid demand and emissions: study - Clean Energy Canada
A new report from Clean Energy Canada highlights that switching all homes in British Columbia to heat pumps for space heating and cooling, combined with electrified water heating technologies, could save households a collective $675 million annually. Individual savings vary by current heating systems, with natural gas users saving about $358 per year and electric resistance heating users saving approximately $1,039 annually. Despite expanding cooling access, overall residential electricity demand would decrease as heat pumps replace inefficient electric baseboards and reduce the need for standalone air conditioners. This transition would also cut emissions by 3.5 megatonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually, roughly equal to removing over 800,000 gas-powered cars from the road or 6% of B.C.’s total emissions. The study’s modeling accounted for B.C.’s diverse climate zones and housing types, using a weighted approach to reflect real-world conditions. However, the report stresses that achieving these benefits requires a coordinated provincial strategy to avoid leaving behind low-income residents, renters, and
energyheat-pumpsclean-energyemissions-reductionelectrificationclimate-actionenergy-efficiencyElectric Heat Pumps Prevail Despite Fickle Federal Energy Policy
The article discusses the resilience and growing demand for electric heat pumps in the United States despite inconsistent and sometimes adverse federal energy policies. Although the current administration has taken steps that have increased electricity costs and withdrawn federal support for domestic heat pump manufacturing, consumer demand for energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions remains strong. Heat pumps, which function like refrigerators by exchanging air to provide both heating and cooling, have overcome earlier limitations in colder climates and are now widely available in energy-efficient models. The Biden administration initially boosted innovation in this sector through public-private partnerships involving major global manufacturers, but this support was later rescinded under the Trump administration’s policies, creating uncertainty for the industry. A notable example of ongoing progress is the California startup Quilt, which secured $33 million in Series A funding in April 2024 from prominent investors including Energy Impact Partners and Galvanize Climate Solutions. Quilt’s technology aims to simplify the transition to electric heat pumps by offering room-by-room, occupant-sensitive temperature control, optimizing comfort, energy costs,
energyheat-pumpsenergy-efficiencyresidential-electrificationelectric-heatingclean-energysmart-technologyHeat pump startup Quilt raises $20M Series B to expand sales
Quilt, a Redwood City-based startup specializing in sleek, customizable heat pumps, has raised $20 million in a Series B funding round. This new investment follows a $33 million Series A round announced in April 2024. The Series B was led by Energy Impact Partner and Galvanize, with additional participation from Alumni Ventures, Gradient Ventures, Incite Ventures, and Lowercarbon Capital. Notably, Veery Maxwell from Galvanize and former Nest CFO Tom vonReichbauer will join Quilt’s board, reflecting the company’s strong ties to Nest, where many of its team members previously worked. The fresh capital will be used to expand Quilt’s market presence. To date, the company has installed nearly 1,000 units across 16 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces. Quilt differentiates itself in the competitive heat pump market by adopting a software- and design-first approach. For instance, it has enhanced the performance of already installed units through over-the-air software and firmware updates
energyheat-pumpsstartup-fundingSeries-Brenewable-energyclimate-technologysoftware-updatesCleanBC review panel recommendations reflect a new era for climate action grounded in affordability, competitiveness, and security - Clean Energy Canada
The article discusses the response of Rachel Doran, executive director of Clean Energy Canada, to a review panel’s recommendations on improving British Columbia’s CleanBC climate plan. CleanBC, originally launched seven years ago, has helped reduce climate emissions, but the panel suggests a renewed focus that goes beyond near-term emissions targets. Instead, success should also be measured by the deployment of transformative climate solutions such as electric vehicles (EVs), heat pumps, wind turbines, and a smarter electricity grid. The panel advocates for ambitious yet achievable targets paired with new progress indicators emphasizing tangible benefits for British Columbians, including cost-saving technologies and investments in net-zero industries. A key strength highlighted is B.C.’s affordable and reliable clean electricity, which provides a competitive advantage and aligns with Premier David Eby’s vision of making the province a “clean energy superpower.” However, concerns remain about BC Hydro’s current Integrated Resource Plan, which may leave the province short of power if large projects proceed. The panel recommends continuing support
energyclean-energyclimate-actionrenewable-energyelectricity-gridelectric-vehiclesheat-pumpsBuild Canada Homes opens the door to efficient homes but misses technology improvements that could realize greater long-term savings - Clean Energy Canada
Clean Energy Canada responded positively to the newly released Build Canada Homes Policy Framework, highlighting its recognition of the need for affordable housing that minimizes emissions and remains cost-effective to operate over time. The framework’s support for low-carbon building materials and energy-efficient design is praised for its potential to reduce both carbon footprints and household energy costs. Efficient homes, the statement notes, save money from day one by lowering heating and cooling expenses, contributing to long-term affordability and sustainability. However, Clean Energy Canada points out a significant missed opportunity in the framework: the lack of an explicit requirement for new homes to be built ready for an electrified future. This includes ensuring homes are equipped for efficient electric heat pump systems and other technologies like smart thermostats and at-home electric vehicle (EV) charging. The organization stresses that incorporating heat pumps, which provide both heating and cooling, would enhance climate resilience amid increasingly hot summers. They argue that public funding should prioritize truly affordable homes that avoid locking in unnecessary emissions and support a clean energy future
energyclean-energyenergy-efficiencylow-carbon-materialsheat-pumpselectrificationsmart-thermostatsBritish Churches Are Putting Their Faith in Heat Pumps
The article highlights a growing trend among British churches to adopt electric heat pumps as part of their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and modernize heating systems. Despite the challenges posed by ancient, often large and uninsulated buildings, many churches are transitioning away from traditional oil, gas, or wood chip boilers toward more eco-friendly heat pump technology. St. Mary’s Church in Lawford, Essex, which dates back to the 13th century, recently installed a heat pump system replacing its costly and unreliable wood chip boiler, marking a significant shift to electric heating after more than 800 years. This transition is seen by many church communities as an expression of Christian stewardship and care for the environment and future generations. The Church of England (C of E) has committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2030, a goal that includes decarbonizing heating systems across its churches. A 2024 survey of over 12,000 C of E churches found that a small but growing number have installed
energyheat-pumpsrenewable-energydecarbonizationelectric-heatingsustainabilityChurch-of-EnglandCanada must build homes that are clean, comfortable and meet the needs of Canadians - Clean Energy Canada
Clean Energy Canada’s Ollie Sheldrick-Moyle responded to the Government of Canada’s Build Canada Homes (BCH) initiative, emphasizing the need for the program to focus on constructing homes that are not only affordable but also clean, comfortable, and suited to Canadians’ needs amid climate change. Sheldrick-Moyle highlighted that affordability should encompass long-term cost savings, such as making homes EV-ready to reduce transportation expenses, and ensuring homes are resilient to increasingly hot summers by installing heat pumps for efficient cooling and heating. Additionally, the statement encourages the government to leverage BCH to support Canadian material producers, particularly by prioritizing low-carbon building materials like lumber and steel to enhance the competitiveness of these sectors. Aligning BCH with existing green government procurement standards could stimulate domestic industry growth and incentivize innovation in low-carbon investments. Overall, the federal government is urged to develop BCH investment criteria that ensure homes are safe, comfortable, affordable, and contribute to Canada’s clean material industries in the long term.
energyclean-energylow-carbon-materialsEV-ready-homessustainable-housingheat-pumpsgreen-building-materialsHow an over-the-air update made Quilt’s heat pumps more powerful
Quilt, a heat pump startup, has pioneered the use of over-the-air (OTA) software updates in residential HVAC systems, significantly enhancing the performance of its heat pumps without hardware changes. By integrating higher quality sensors—such as additional pressure sensors and more accurate temperature and current sensors—Quilt was able to collect detailed operational data that revealed untapped capacity in their units. This insight allowed the company to increase the maximum heating and cooling output from 20,500 and 19,700 BTUs per hour to 25,200 and 24,000 BTUs per hour, respectively, enabling the heat pumps to better handle extreme temperatures while maintaining efficiency. The OTA update involved both software and firmware improvements across the main processor and microcontrollers within the indoor and outdoor units. While the inclusion of advanced sensors and networking components added some cost to the bill of materials, Quilt’s leadership believes the benefits—such as continuous improvement, broader market applicability, and avoiding the need for new hardware models—far outweigh
energyHVACheat-pumpsover-the-air-updatesensorsfirmwaresoftware-defined-HVACWebinar: How to talk to Canada's next clean technology adopters - Clean Energy Canada
The article announces an upcoming webinar titled “How to talk to Canada’s next clean energy adopters,” organized by Re.Climate and Clean Energy Canada. The webinar will launch the report Empowering Households, developed in partnership with Abacus Data, based on a survey of 3,000 people in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area and Metro Vancouver. This research identifies five distinct groups of clean technology adopters, ranging from highly motivated individuals to those not yet interested, and explores the barriers, motivations, information sources, and potential incentives influencing their adoption of clean technologies like electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps. The article emphasizes the urgency of accelerating clean technology adoption in Canadian households, which contribute at least 17% of the country’s emissions. Despite strong interest, obstacles such as upfront costs, housing limitations, and confusing information hinder broader uptake. The webinar will feature insights from report authors and clean technology experts, focusing on the main barriers and offering policy and communication strategies tailored to effectively engage the diverse
energyclean-technologyclean-energy-adoptionelectric-vehiclesheat-pumpsclimate-goalsCanada-energy-policyNeed Help Getting Off Gas? Call The Free Quitline! - CleanTechnica
CleanTechnica announces the launch of a free Natural Gas Quitline during Clean Air Week 2025 to support individuals transitioning from natural gas appliances to cleaner electric alternatives. Recognizing that switching off natural gas can be challenging due to attachment to existing appliances, costs, and confusion about options, the Quitline offers personalized guidance through electrification coaches. These experts assist with questions about induction stoves, heat pumps for heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters and dryers, solar energy and battery storage, electric fireplaces, electrical capacity upgrades, and more, helping users plan either incremental changes or comprehensive home electrification. The initiative emphasizes the health and environmental benefits of moving away from natural gas, which contributes significantly to indoor air pollution, methane emissions, and respiratory health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like children. By promoting electric appliances, the Quitline aims to improve indoor air quality and reduce climate impact. Interested individuals are encouraged to call 1-877-QUITGAS to receive support and take the first step toward
energyclean-energynatural-gas-alternativeselectric-appliancesheat-pumpssolar-energybattery-storageEVs and heat pumps don't have a popularity problem. They have a barrier problem: report - Clean Energy Canada
A recent study by Clean Energy Canada and Abacus Data reveals that the main obstacle to wider adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), heat pumps, and other clean technologies in Canada is not a lack of interest but structural barriers. Surveying 3,000 residents in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and Metro Vancouver, the research identifies five distinct adopter groups—ranging from highly motivated to uninterested—and finds that a majority of respondents are positively inclined toward clean technologies. Specifically, 59% are interested in buying an EV as their next car (69% in Vancouver), 56% view heat pumps favorably, and over three-quarters support other clean home technologies like smart thermostats and rooftop solar panels. The study highlights that younger Canadians show greater enthusiasm for clean technologies, with 71% under 30 wanting an EV compared to 49% over 60. However, many younger people live in apartments or townhomes, where access to home charging and the ability to
energyclean-energyelectric-vehiclesheat-pumpsenergy-adoptionsmart-home-technologyrenewable-energyThis Detroit startup is turning to utilities to make home efficiency upgrades cheaper
Detroit-based startup Pearl Edison aims to reduce the cost and complexity of home energy efficiency upgrades by partnering with utilities. The company leverages the trust and brand equity of utilities to identify homeowners most likely to benefit from retrofits such as heat pumps and insulation. Pearl Edison creates white-labeled websites for utilities and helps run campaigns to sign up customers for upgrades. Using multiple data sources, it designs retrofit plans with guaranteed pricing, which are then verified in the field before vetted contractors complete the installations. Pearl Edison’s business model benefits both homeowners and contractors by lowering customer acquisition costs and streamlining project delivery. The startup has secured $3.3 million in seed funding from investors including New System Ventures, Commonweal Ventures, Lightbank, and Newlab. It currently partners with two utilities—DT Energy in Michigan and Duquesne Light in Pennsylvania—and the city of Ann Arbor, Michigan, with plans to add two more utilities within the year. By integrating with trusted utility brands, Pearl Edison aims to make
energyenergy-efficiencyhome-upgradesutilitiesheat-pumpsenergy-retrofitstartupGeothermal & Borehole Thermal Energy Storage Can Reliably Heat Buildings in Extreme Cold — NREL Modeling Results - CleanTechnica
A recent study by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) demonstrates that borehole thermal energy storage (BTES) combined with geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) can reliably heat buildings in extreme cold climates such as Alaska. The research, published in June 2025, modeled a 20-year period in which waste heat from a nearby coal plant was captured during summer, stored underground in boreholes, and then used in winter to heat two Department of Defense buildings in Fairbanks. The BTES system uses a network of vertical boreholes filled with a water-antifreeze solution to store and transfer heat, allowing the geothermal heat pumps to efficiently warm buildings without relying on cold outdoor air. Using EnergyPlus software, researchers found that heating demand in these cold-climate buildings was 5.6 times higher than cooling demand, a typical pattern for regions with long, harsh winters and mild summers. The study modeled two scenarios: one with a five-year prehe
energygeothermal-energyborehole-thermal-energy-storageheat-pumpssustainable-heatingcold-climate-energy-solutionsNREL-research