Solar Assisted Heat Pump

Research and Development into SAHPs

I lead a 6 month research and development project for solar assisted heat pumps. This type of heat pump uses thin thermodynamic panels as the evaporator. They replace the need for a large box and fan unit outside the house. Our client came to us with the question, why aren't these being more commonly used? They are thin, can go anywhere on the building and they don't use a noisy fan. It was my job to find out why and solve the problems or barriers preventing their wider use.

Solar Assisted Heat Pump: Text

Solar Assisted Heat Pump: Image

The Problem

Interviews and work shadowing were carried out with heat pump installers, architects, developers and heat pump users, to gather insights to develop a value proposition and initial ideation. The key insight is that their is a lack of understanding of thermodynamic panels, people confuse them with solar PV due to their name. Another insight is that one panel alone is not enough for heating and hot water and the only current UK supplier has no intention of innovating for this. These insights opened up a clear gap in the market and allowed us to brainstorm and develop ideas for a space and hot water heating solution.