China's National Development and Reform Commission has released a new action plan to ensure high-quality development of the heat pump industry. The document outlines strategic goals and key measures to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and support a low-carbon economy.
According to the plan, by 2030, China intends to significantly strengthen the production and research and development capabilities of heat pumps. The goal is to improve the energy efficiency of key products by 20% and achieve technological breakthroughs in the production of large-capacity and high-temperature heat pumps, compressors and refrigerants. The plan envisages expanding the application of the technology in construction, industry, agriculture and transportation.
In construction, the emphasis is on the use of air-source heat pumps in regions with cold climates and hot summers/cold winters, as well as the large-scale introduction of ground-source and water-based systems. The replacement of coal-fired heating systems with heat pumps in public and residential buildings is supported, with a gradual reduction in the use of electric reheating. In industry, attention is paid to the use of heat pumps for heat recovery in the petrochemical, textile, food and ceramic industries. In agriculture, applications are being considered for drying crops, wood, and medicinal plants, and in transportation for controlling the temperature regime of infrastructure and electric vehicles.
The document also envisages the modernization of inefficient heat pumps, especially those with a service life of more than 10 years, by replacing components and optimizing systems. Particular attention is paid to the integration of heat pumps with existing energy sources and improving equipment recycling and recycling systems.
To increase production efficiency, the plan supports the implementation of digital tools, smart manufacturing and component integration. Priority is given to the development of heat pumps with refrigerants with a low global warming potential, in particular based on natural refrigerants and HFO. The strategy includes measures to reduce refrigerant leakage and promote their reuse.
“Smart” maintenance, improved data monitoring and professional training contribute to increasing operational efficiency. Companies are encouraged to move from equipment suppliers to system integrators and develop service systems.
Additionally, R&D is supported in areas such as transcritical CO2 heat pumps, high-capacity models, noise reduction and defrosting technologies, and integration with other energy sources. National innovation platforms should play a key role in accelerating the implementation of technologies.
State support includes financial incentives, green tax policies, and the promotion of heat pumps included in national catalogues. The plan includes the inclusion of heat pumps in regional heating strategies and ensuring access to energy infrastructure.
The plan also aims to establish a comprehensive system of standards covering energy efficiency, design, installation, maintenance and carbon footprint. It envisages the expansion of energy efficiency labelling and international cooperation on the definition, standardisation and certification of heat pumps.
The implementation of the plan will be coordinated by a number of government ministries with the active participation of regional authorities, who are encouraged to develop accompanying policies and projects. The role of industry associations in regulating the market and raising public awareness is highlighted.