Figure 2.15 shows the maximum technically feasible phase-out of HFCs in ducted / packaged (roof top) air conditioning units in the EU provided additional measures are implemented (WAM), and the expected mix of alternative technologies with their estimated growth.147 Fig. 2.15 also shows the equipment lifetime. Starting at the earliest end of use date, it visualizes when HFC consumption for existing equipment will end.
Figure 2.15 Estimated maximum technically feasible phase-out of HFCs in new ducted air conditioners in the EU provided additional measures are implemented (WAM), and the expected mix of abatement options. Data from Schwarz et al. 2011.148
2.4.1.4 Chillers Chillers cool water, which is pumped throughout a building in order to provide cooling in multiple rooms. Chillers can be divided according to the compressor used, i.e. positive displacement compressors (reciprocating piston or screw) or centrifugal compressors. In the EU most of them use HFCs with charges of 5 to 10,000 kg, although there are chillers in the EU using ammonia, hydrocarbons and water. Any alternative low-GWP refrigerants are technically feasible as the distribution in the building is via water loops. Ammonia and hydrocarbon chillers are already on the market, with increased energy efficiency of about 10% in small hydrocarbon chillers to 20% for small ammonia chillers. CO2 is expected to have the same energy efficiency in moderate and 10% lower energy efficiency in warm climates. For large centrifugal chillers, water as refrigerant is an environmentally benign solution, with 5-10% better energy efficiency.149 Figure 2.16 shows the maximum technically feasible phase-out of HFCs in positive displacement compressor chillers in the EU provided additional measures are implemented (WAM), and the expected mix of alternative technologies with their estimated growth. According to the EU sector sheet ammonia has the potential to penetrate 50% of the market, however the penetration mix chosen by Schwarz 2011 only allows for 30% ammonia, despite its significantly cheaper costs compared to unsaturated HFCs.150 Therefore unsaturated HFC could be avoided completely by 2030. CO2 is used in the penetration mix despite its higher cost because it is the only non-flammable refrigerant among all the alternatives.151 Fig. 2.16 also shows the equipment lifetime. Starting at the earliest end of use date, it visualizes when HFC consumption for existing equipment will end.
Figure 2.16 Estimated maximum technically feasible phase-out of HFCs in new positive displace¬ment compressor chillers in the EU provided additional measures are implemented (WAM), and the expected mix of abatement options. Data from Schwarz 2011 but ammonia increased by 10% to 40% in 2030.152
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