The Statewide Gas Emerging Technologies Program is currently evaluating a number of emerging and/or underutilized natural gas efficiency technologies to better understand their potential to contribute to California’s climate future.
Current research projects are summarized below and the current status of each project is updated quarterly.
Additional ideas for technology research is accepted on an ongoing basis through our online submission form.
Projects are updated every 2 weeks! Check below to see our latest updates.
Completed Projects can be located on the California Emerging Technologies portal below.
Gas-Fired Heat Pump Water Heating - Phase 2F – Site #4
This project is a field study of a Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP) water heater. The GAHP is a gas-fired technology with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 9. This project falls into phase 2F (field study phase) of a multi-phase field study pilot project for GAHP water heaters & combination systems. Phase 1 of this pilot was completed to address the initial planning and data gathering necessary for phase 2F to launch. Phase 2F plans to have installations in four (4) sites total, but the other three (3) sites are not part of this scope. For reference, Phase 2F Site #1, Site #2, and Site #3 are currently underway.
This project is for Site #4 in phase 2F. Site #4 is at a hotel building.
This study will determine the coefficient of performance (COP) of the baseline domestic hot water system (DHW) and the post-installation DHW system with the GAHP serving the base water heating load. This study will also determine the greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of the GAHP water heater vs. an electric heat pump water heater as well as the operational costs for each. Additionally, this study will compare field performance data with lab performance data. Lastly, this study will provide lessons learned for SoCalGas and GAHP installation contractors in a DHW-only application.
The goal of this project is to provide additional insight into the GAHP Tool development based on the following:
-Overall daily and annual emissions savings estimates with the option to see a California-specific summary to understand the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions impact.
-A laboratory results comparisons relative to the commercial water heating load profiles to comprehensively understand the system responsiveness and energy performance.
-Leveraging and integrating ongoing GAHP field studies to the tool.
-Conduct training sessions to discuss real-world applications of the tool and address technical and operational questions.
Gas-Fired Heat Pump Water Heating - Phase 2F - Site #3
This project is a field study of a Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP) water heater. The GAHP is a gas-fired technology with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 9. This project falls into phase 2F (field study phase) of a multi-phase field study pilot project for GAHP water heaters & combination systems. Phase 1 of this pilot was completed to address the initial planning and data gathering necessary for phase 2F to launch. Phase 2F plans to have installations in four (4) sites total, but the other three (3) sites are not part of this scope. For reference, Phase 2F Site #1 and Site #2 are currently underway.
This project is for Site #3 in phase 2F. Site #3 is at a multifamily building.
This study will determine the coefficient of performance (COP) of the baseline domestic hot water system (DHW) and the post-installation DHW system with the GAHP serving the base water heating load. This study will also determine the greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of the GAHP water heater vs. an electric heat pump water heater as well as the operational costs for each. Additionally, this study will compare field performance data with lab performance data. Lastly, this study will provide lessons learned for SoCalGas and GAHP installation contractors in a DHW-only application.
The goal of Phase 1 of this project is to develop a tool that provides integration guidelines for emerging gas-fired commercial heat pump water heaters (CHPWH) and baseline equipment (standard & high-efficiency, tankless & storage-type) to ensure:
- Ideal system configuration and component sizing, optimizing capital/installed costs.
- Optimized system efficiency for a given installation type and climate zone (gas-fired CHPWH + baseline equipment).
- Reliable energy and operating cost savings, and insight into control strategies to achieve the same.
The main objective of this project is to install a CarbinX unit at a pool heater boiler at a hotel in Los Angeles and test and quantify the carbon dioxide emissions reduction, fuel savings, waste heat recovered, and energy savings. The CarbinX unit will also operate as a Direct Air Capture (DAC) unit when the pool is not operational, which is the first application of this for the CarbinX unit. The project team will also leverage the ICF pool modeling tool to extrapolate annualized emissions and fuel savings with the CarbinX unit.
Gas-Fired Heat Pump Water Heating - Phase 2F - Site #1 Enhancement
This project is a field study of a Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP) water heater. The GAHP is a gas-fired technology with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 9. This project falls into phase 2F (field study phase) of a multi-phase field study pilot project for GAHP water heaters & combination systems. Phase 1 of this pilot was completed to address the initial planning and data gathering necessary for phase 2F to launch. Phase 2F plans to have installations in four (4) sites total, but the other three (3) sites are not part of this scope. For reference, Phase 2F Site #2 is currently underway and Phase 2F Site #1 is expected to wrap up by Q1 2025.
This project is an extension of Site #1 in phase 2F. Site #1 was the first GAHP installation in a domestic hot water only (DHW-only) application and had many challenges that were discussed in the preliminary report. The GAHP is saving a minimal amount of energy right now because the average GAHP run time is less than 20 minutes. The Study Team has decided to launch an extension project to make changes to the existing GAHP + DHW Boiler systems to maximize the run time of the GAHP. Those changes include:
• Inclusion of recirculation load in load served by GAHP
• One of the following:
o Installation of (2) indirect storage tanks (ISTs) to replace the plate and frame heat exchangers
o Installation of (2) additional traditional storage tanks (STs) and replacement of existing heat exchangers with new heat exchangers. New STs will operate with new heat exchangers to act as a thermal battery
• Modification of GAHP controls and potential addition of controls
Additionally, the analysis scope is increased to include a comparison of the field results to the lab results from ET23SWG0015.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the impacts on avoided gas cost calculations from increasing hydrogen and biogas content in pipeline quality natural gas. California EE programs must meet Total System Benefit (TSB) and Total Resource Cost (TRC) metrics. Underlying the calculation of these metrics is the Avoided Cost Calculator Tool (ACC). The ACC provides gas commodity prices, gas CO2 and Nox emissions factors, transportation costs, methane leakage rates, gas compression factors, and inflation rates to calculate the avoided costs from reducing natural gas use in equipment. However, these costs are for pipeline quality natural gas and are not adjustable to account for blends of biogas and/or Hydrogen into the pipeline quality natural gas. Therefore, the ACC in its current state cannot be used to accurately estimate the avoided gas costs for the aforementioned fuel blends.
The goal of this project is to investigate the inputs to the CEDARS Cost Effectiveness Tool (CET) and provide suggested revised inputs to the model for: 1. Natural gas blended with biogas and 2. Natural gas blended with hydrogen up to 30% concentration.
Wireless steam trap monitoring technology specifically focuses on steam trap systems within the commercial and industrial sectors. This field study aims to monitor steam traps at a site, demonstrating their significant impact on energy savings and efficiency improvements. The primary objectives of the project include evaluating the performance, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of wireless monitoring systems for steam traps. The technology under study involves monitoring systems that track the condition of steam traps, with a focus on natural gas as the fuel type. The project addresses barriers such as customer behavior in terms of the timeliness of fixing failed traps, which provides insights into maintenance practices and energy optimization. The sectors covered in this project include commercial and industrial facilities. Target metrics to be studied encompass energy savings, efficiency improvements, and the accuracy and cost-effectiveness of the monitoring systems.
The previous GET Study ET25SWG0004 – CFS SME Interviews highlighted a subset of high-potential gas-fired CFS technologies currently lacking incentive coverage. This project will expand upon those findings through a second round of targeted SME interviews, this time engaging manufacturers, distributors, and institutional end-users, to gain forward-looking insights into equipment features, market readiness, retrofit viability, and barriers to adoption. While key equipment trends from the NAFEM conference were included in the initial report, this study will revisit those findings through direct engagement with manufacturers and distributors to assess real-world product availability, design updates, and integration potential into (EE) programs.
This proposal is designed to be a flexible, milestone-based effort. At this stage, the study does not require full technical potential analysis or formal M&V planning. Instead, the focus is on identifying promising measures and understanding their energy performance characteristics, operational benefits, adoption challenges, and gaps that inhibit current incentive program participation. Results from this study will be combined with findings from the previous study (ET25SWG0004) to support a pipeline of potential new or enhanced CFS EE measures.
Ultimately, the project seeks to enable future field and lab studies, support standardized testing protocol development, and potentially measure package creation of selected technologies across categories such advanced fryers, tilt skillets, and advanced burners, along with forward-looking technologies like sensor-based modulation or AI-enabled heat management, and advanced CFS controls.
This study aims to provide additional system performance testing for a prototype dual fuel hybrid heat pump for the residential sector. Developed by a major OEM, this 120 V heat pump is equipped with a gas combustion burner to maximize efficiency and performance. This eliminates the need for expensive 240 V panel upgrades and addresses the size and recovery limitations of 120 V heat pump water heaters. The system is a TRL 8 with prototypes constructed and tested by the OEM which leverages their existing commercially available 120 V electric heat pump water heater form factor. This technology is designed to operate under the electric heat pump system during routine usage, however, during times of peak demand or tank depletion, the natural gas burner will be leveraged.
This is a field study which is the second phase of a market and technology study for natural gas efficiency technologies for controlled environment agriculture (CEA). The CEA and Greenhouse HVAC Market and Technology Study (ET23SWG0003) and completed in 2024 characterized California's CEA market [1]. A major finding of the study was the energy savings potential from root zone heating (RZH) technologies for greenhouses.
The objectives of this proposal are to collect data in the field to quantify savings by the size of heat distribution system as well as the delivery system and start scoping for measure package development to support creation of a Greenhouse RZH measure in California. The technology readiness level is TRL 9 (mature), with multiple systems operating in the state of California.
A field trial will consist of (3) greenhouse growers installing RZH technology in at least (1) greenhouse range (or zone of control) each. This field evaluation would collect data from RZH systems in existing greenhouses to model energy savings by California climate zone to enable a deemed measure package to be developed in a third phase of the study. Data loggers will be deployed to collect data of greenhouse space temperatures and heating system operation. The completion of this field evaluation will be an initial measure package plan scope for a greenhouse RZH measure.
This project explores the potential of three types of dehumidifiers to reduce natural gas consumption in greenhouses by offering more energy-efficient methods of humidity control. By maintaining ideal humidity levels without relying solely on heating or ventilation, dehumidifiers can help growers create favorable conditions for plant growth while minimizing excess heat and energy use.
The study involves a comprehensive evaluation of various commercially available dehumidification technologies. These technologies have been reviewed by subject matter experts (SMEs) and documented in case studies throughout the literature. Using advanced modeling software, the project will conduct an analytical comparison of these systems across different climate zones in California for one type of produce. The goal is to identify viable market opportunities that align with both sustainability objectives and financial performance, ultimately supporting more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible greenhouse operations.
Gas-Fired Heat Pump Water Heating - Phase 2F – Site #2
This project is a field study of a Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP) water heater. The GAHP is a gas-fired technology and its technology readiness level (TRL) is 9. This project falls into phase 2F (field study phase) of a multi-phase field study pilot project for GAHP water heaters & combination systems. Phase 1 of this pilot was completed to address initial planning and data gathering necessary for phase 2F to launch. Phase 2F plans to have installations in five (5) sites total, but the other (4) sites are not part of this scope. For reference, Phase 2F Site #1 is currently underway.
This project is for Site #2 in phase 2F. Due to limited multifamily project availability, this Site #2 is a hotel that was selected due to the high hot watering heating energy usage and an existing system that provides ease of integration of the supplemental gas-fired heat pump water heater.
This study will determine the coefficient of performance (COP) of the baseline domestic hot water system (DHW) and the post-installation DHW system with the GAHP serving the base water heating load. This study will also determine the greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of the GAHP water heater vs. an electric heat pump water heater. Lastly, this study will provide lessons learned for SoCalGas and for GAHP installation contractors in a DHW-only application.
Spa Heating Analysis Literature Review and Market Assessment
Spas or hot tubs are normally used year-round, unlike heated pools. Spas typically maintain water temperatures between100-104 F which require fast heating for better customer experience. Spa heating and pool-spa configurations generally involve how the water is heated and circulated between pool and spa. This project aims to research standalone spas and types of pool-spa configurations (mentioned below) in residential, multifamily, and commercial sectors:
a) Standalone spa (in-ground and above-ground)- more common in residential sectors
b) Integrated spa built into the pool structure- switching between pool and spa modes via automated valves
c) Attached pool-spa with different circulation loops
d) Isolated pool-spa with separate/dedicated heaters and flow configurations
The study aims to provide comprehensive comparison on sizing of equipment, equipment costs, and temperature control for above configurations. The study also aims to research reference heat transfer equations and associated modeling assumptions to account conduction heat transfer, which is a significant heat loss in above-ground spas compared to in-ground heated pools. One of the other objectives would be to study recommended flow rates/turnovers of jet pumps and insulated covers for commercially available spa heating equipment
This project will test and quantify the emissions improvements and potential efficiency gains for the next-generation ClearSign M1 Ultra-Low-NOx burner operating on natural gas in addition to up to 30% hydrogen fuel (by vol.) added to natural gas. The potential energy savings and CO2 emissions reduction of the next-generation ClearSign burner technology operating on natural gas - hydrogen fuel mixtures will be determined. Results from this study will be compared to prior testing on the ClearSign-Rogue burner with natural gas from the ET23SWG0009 project. The fuel, energy usage, and efficiency measurements will be recorded along with the reduction in CO2 emissions.
This study aims to characterize the hydrogen fuel blending performance (up to 30% blend) of a second Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP) to sufficiently populate model inputs in Energy Plus. Gas Technology Institute (GTI) Energy will serve as a contractor for this study. They will develop a test plan including instrumentation, plumbing, and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) and testing tolerances. Additionally, they will carry out equipment commissioning according to the manufacturer's rating conditions and laboratory testing. The testing will consist of both static performance mapping and transient performance mapping. At the completion of the testing, GTI will generate curve fits and implement them in the Energy Plus GAHP model.
This is an agile project idea to compare DHW sizing tools to actual site data for (9) multifamily sites. A comparison of data for (6) sites was done in ET23SWG0012 GAHP Sizing, Screening and Design. An additional (9) sites would further refine this analysis to make observations which would be useful for an eventual GAHP Sizing tool.
Lincus has worked with the customer for ET23SWG0002 GAHP Pilot Phase 2 Site #1 and ET25SWG0002 GAHP Pilot Phase 2 Site #3 on some additional work outside the GET program. Lincus has site data for (9) sites and has gotten permission from the customer to gather their gas interval meter data to do this analysis.
This Gas Emerging Technology (GET) study project is proposed to monitor and analyze the potential gas energy savings from replacing non-controlled domestic hot water (DHW) circulator pumps with smart circulator pumps. Smart circulator pumps use either a timer, aquastat, timer + aquastat, or an on-demand control via an occupancy sensor or push button to control the pump operation. This GET pilot project proposes to install circulator pumps at eight (8) multifamily sites and monitor and analyze water heater gas consumption. The performance of both the base case representing a non-controlled circulator pump and the measure case representing a smart circulator pump will be evaluated. The study results will be documented in a final ET report at the end of the study.
There is a behavioral water and energy efficiency solution that will help reduce household carbon emissions and water use at scale. The device is an easy at home DIY retrofit to promote water conservation and improve shower habits. The technology automatically detects when a shower starts, and alerts the user at start, half-way, end, and overtime. When synced with the app, users can view behaviors, see water and energy saved translated into cost, and compare water/electric bills. The project will analyze the behavior after install and will do a second analysis several months after initial analysis. The measures will be deployed at approximately 50 single and multifamily properties.
This study aims to characterize the performance of a second Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP) unit to sufficiently populate model inputs in Energy Plus. Gas Technology Institute (GTI) Energy will serve as a contractor for this study. They will develop a test plan including instrumentation, plumbing, and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) and testing tolerances and the commission the unit to carry out all equipment commissioning according to the manufacturer's rating conditions and laboratory testing. The testing will consist of both static performance mapping and transient performance mapping. At the completion of the testing, GTI will generate curve fits and implement them in the Energy Plus GAHP model. Note that this project aims to add additional performance mapping curves to the Energy Plus GAHP model by experimentally testing a different manufacturer's GAHP unit.
Infrared drying of walnuts has demonstrated to significantly reduce drying Not Reviewed
times (by 25-35%) and energy usage. This involves moisture-based sorting and IR
pre-drying of walnuts, followed by conventional hot air drying. The scope of this
agile project comprises of literature review of this technology (Dr. Pan’s study at UC
Davis) and development of spreadsheet-based energy savings calculator. The
objective of the tool development would be to estimate energy savings and payback
period of IR process drying; based on customer specific inputs such as number and
output of burners (MMBTU/hr.) , length of season, operating hours, production rate
(tons/hour) and number of conveyor lines. Average gas and electric utility rates
would be selected based on climate zone/location. The project would also compile
estimated cost info. Of natural gas catalyzed IR heater (equipment and installation)
for determining payback period.
The current process involves cleaning, washing, and conveying of walnuts to drying
nuts. Hot air at 43 degrees Celsius is used to dry walnuts from their initial moisture
content to a moisture level of 8% on wet basis. The quality of drying process affects
the product quality significantly. This highlights the importance of emerging
technology related to walnut drying to reduce the drying time and energy usage
without affecting the quality of walnuts.
The objective of this study is to examine the energy savings, benefits, and drawbacks of various types of pool heating equipment. A macro-based Excel tool will be developed to conduct an hourly energy, cost, and GHG emissions analysis of five types of pool heating equipment: traditional gas pool heaters, condensing gas pool heaters, gas absorption heat pump pool heaters, traditional gas pool heaters supplemented by solar thermal heating, and hybrid electric/hybrid heat pump pool heat pump pool heaters. The result will be a user-friendly pool energy consumption calculator tool that will allow users to analyze their existing and prospective pool heating equipment, associated energy savings, cost savings, and GHG emissions.
This study aims to investigate a fuel-fired Thermal Heat Pump (THP) technology to assess its uniform efficiency factor (UEF) potential. The Gas Technology Institute (GTI) Energy will serve as the subcontractor for this study. The THP concept is a gas-driven ammonia adsorption heat pump water heater concept in a packaged system. It incorporates a buffer tank and a sorption module that includes the reactor (thermal compressor) with a salt matrix sorbent and heat exchanger. The sorption module is a closed water system hermetically sealed with no moving parts, using ammonia as the refrigerant. The system size is anticipated to be similar to a typical residential 50-gallon gas storage water heater and is intended as a drop-in replacement for residential water heating. For this study, the "Beta" unit will be tested as recent improvements from the prior "Alpha" units have led to advancements designed to achieve a UEF greater than 1.2.
This Gas Emerging Technology (GET) study project is proposed to monitor and analyze the potential gas energy savings from adding a chemical additive to hydronic heating systems in commercial or multifamily buildings in California. These water additives claim to reduce the surface tension of the water improving the heat transfer in building systems and allowing buildings to hit temperature set points more quickly. This reduces the overall heating boiler run time, thereby, saving energy. One manufacturer of fluid additives has provided multiple case studies from various third-parties as evidence that their product indeed saves energy. Additionally, their website lists several utility programs across North America that offer rebates and incentives for their product.
This GET project proposes to install the fluid additive at three (3) multifamily or commercial sites and analyze the gas consumption pre and post-installation using an IPMVP Option B approach. The study results will be documented in a final ET report at the end of the study.
This project aims to conduct a comprehensive market study on industrial furnace applications, with a primary focus on identifying opportunities for natural gas savings. The study will explore a range of technologies, including radiative recuperators, thermal imaging, insulation, ductwork, fuel/air mixture optimization, and heat recovery systems, all of which can be applied to industrial furnaces.
The main objective of the study is to assess the potential for natural gas savings in industrial furnace applications. It will thoroughly evaluate the feasibility and market potential of the identified technologies, offering actionable recommendations tailored to the Statewide Gas Emerging Technologies (GET) program. Moreover, the study will include an analysis of the environmental impact and customer adoption rates, while also considering any potential barriers that could influence market entry. A final report documenting the findings and feasibility of the technologies will be provided to help the utilities make future recommendations on industrial furnace technologies.
Energy Efficiency Modeling of Gas-fired Heat Pump Water Heaters
Water heating represents significant energy use in residential applications. Therefore, energy efficient water heating is an essential component to achieve California’s saving goals. Although gas-fired heat pump water heaters (gHPWH) have been around for over three decades, this technology has only matured in recent years, in part because of improved systems and infrastructure as well as emerging energy conservation standards on water heating. This project is proposed to develop energy models by using ResStock by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), to forecast the overall impact of a gas-fired heat pump water heater (gHPWH) on energy consumption, utility bills, and greenhouse gas emissions in the low-rise (5 stories or less) in multifamily residential sector for buildings with a central water heater as well as various other technologies. This work will specifically focus on this sector as the gas heat pump water heater of interest (Robur’s GAHP-A is sized larger than typical single family residential homes, making multifamily the best fit for this product).
The proposed project aims to conduct a comprehensive market study focused on production line heat recovery systems within the industrial and manufacturing sectors. Heat recovery systems play a crucial role in improving energy efficiency and sustainability for various industrial processes, and their adoption is on the rise.
This project aims to research and evaluate the market for thin triple-pane windows and window panel add-ons in residential and multi-family buildings. The study will focus on the current use of industry-standard incumbent technology of double and single-pane windows and assess the potential benefits of adopting thin triple-pane windows and panel add-ons. Thin triple-pane windows, which have the same dimensions as double-pane windows with only a marginal increase in weight, provide the same R-value as traditional thickness triple-pane windows, an increase from the incumbent. This design minimizes the increased costs associated with installation in new or retrofit builds, as well as reducing shipping costs. Additionally, window panel add-ons offer an extra layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer and easing the load on HVAC systems without increasing utilization costs. These add-ons are custom sized for each window, ensuring flexibility and ease of installation.
By reducing heat transfer, these products lower HVAC system loads and associated utility bills, offering significant cost savings. The lightweight design of panel add-ons further reduces manufacturing, shipping, and installation costs. Thin triple-pane windows occupy the same market niche as double-pane windows and can be used in the same manner, including opening and closing. Several manufacturers currently produce and sell thin triple-pane windows and panel add-ons. The goal of this agile project is a market assessment to help justify the need for a medium sized modeling project which can be used to update the statewide measure package that is currently being developed.
This study aims to characterize the hydrogen fuel blending performance (up to 30% blend) of a Robur Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP)-A unit to sufficiently populate model inputs in Energy Plus. Gas Technology Institute (GTI) Energy will serve as a contractor for this study. They will develop a test plan including instrumentation, plumbing, and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) and testing tolerances and the commission the unit to carry out all equipment commissioning according to the manufacturer's rating conditions and laboratory testing. The testing will consist of both static performance mapping and transient performance mapping. At the completion of the testing, GTI will generate curve fits and implement them in the Energy Plus GAHP model.
The scope of this project is to interview five (5) subject matter experts (SMEs) to gain early feedback on CFS measures without incentives or measure packages and barriers to their implementation. Barriers could include: not enough difference between efficient an non-efficient equipment, high initial cost making an incentive unlikely to impact decision-making, difficulty to establish a test method, or difficulty to calculate energy savings. If early barriers are found during this study, those pieces of CFS equipment will not be investigated in a larger market, field, or lab study so funds can be focused on CFS equipment with better potential to participate in an EE program.
Based on results from a previous modeling study on Dual Fuel Single-Family Heating (ET23SWG0005) where the cost to run an electric heat pump was 68% - 144% more than a gas furnace, the GET team believes that installation of gas absorption heat pump (GAHP) water heaters will save utility costs when compared with condensing gas-fired boilers and electric heat pump water heaters (EHPWHs). Additionally, based upon another GET study (ET23SWG0012) which investigates the sizing of heat pump water heaters, the GET Team believes that EHPWHs may have much larger up front capital costs in a multifamily retrofit due to the large amount of recommended storage tank volume. In many multifamily (MF) buildings, there is not enough space in existing mechanical rooms or boiler enclosures for the additional storage tanks, meaning an expensive roof installation is the only option.
This project is a modeling study of domestic hot water (DHW) systems in multifamily buildings using models based upon approved DEER prototypes. MF models used in this study will be the best available prototypes: either DEER models themselves, or DEER models modified to include DHW primary and recirculation loops. This project will model the therm, kW and kWh use of the following technologies:
1. 84% efficient gas-fired boiler
2. Condensing gas-fired boiler
3. Gas absorption heat pump (GAHP) water heater (preheating make-up only and preheating make-up plus reheating recirculation water)
4. Electric heat pump water heater (EHPWH)
Technology #1 above (84% efficient gas-fired boiler) will serve as the baseline model.
Technologies #2-#4 will serve as the measure-case technologies.
The objectives of this project are to compare the following metrics across condensing gas-fired boilers, GAHPs, and EHPWHs technologies for two (2) different MF rate tariffs and all (16) California climate zones:
1. Utility costs
2. Capital costs
3. Return on investment (ROI)
4. Greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts
5. Total system benefit (TSB)
Gas-Fired Heat Pump Water Heating - Phase 2F – Site #1
This project is in phase 2F (field study phase) of a multi-phase field study pilot project for gas-fired heat pump water heaters & combination systems. Phase 1 of this pilot is already underway to address initial planning and data gathering necessary for phase 2F to launch. Phase 2F plans to have installations in five (5) sites total, but the other (4) sites are not part of this scope.
This project is for Site #1 in phase 2F.
AGILE: The GET program recently completed project ET23SWG009 to test and quantity the emissions and efficiency improvements of an emerging burner technology as a boiler burner retrofit. The ClearSign Core™ technology is an innovative gaseous fuel combustion technology designed to significantly reduce environmental emissions of nitrogen oxides (Nox), a highly regulated pollutant, in industrial applications. ClearSign Core™ can meet very low levels of emissions required by the most stringent regulations in the country, while enhancing heat transfer characteristics. The ClearSign CoreTM technology consists of air fuel premixing, internal flue gas recirculation (FGR), and their patented distil flame holder technology. They are the only burner company that has this unique combination of those three combustion elements in a fuel burner.
The goal of this study is to perform a technoeconomic analysis (TEA) for boiler burner retrofit operations to determine customer savings, payback period, TRC, TSB, and measure possibility of a boiler burner retrofit.
AGILE: There is a push for electrification of most gas end uses including commercial cooking. The results from GET Study ET23SWG005: Dual Fuel Single Family Modeling indicated that running an electric heat pump to heat a single-family home would cost anywhere from 68% - 144% more than a gas furnace depending upon the climate zone where the home is located. In dollars this is between $53/year - $391/year more than a gas furnace. It stands to reason that operating costs of electric cooking equipment could be more than gas-fired equipment. Additionally, the emissions of electric cooking equipment fluctuate throughout the day so there could be times of the day where electric cooking equipment emits more emissions than gas-fired equipment. The Study Team will investigate the underlying data for the emissions factors in the ACC to provide recommendations for further research. The Study Team will briefly scan and screen for gas-fired fryers which exceed the Energy Star qualifications that would be good candidates for further research.
Lincus proposes and agile project to use hourly gas fryer data from a previous emerging technology study to estimate the fuel cost change and emissions change from replacing a gas fryer with an electric fryer. This would inform a potential study of Commercial Foodservice (CFS) Equipment emissions and fuel cost comparisons for a wider range of CFS equipment.
This Gas Emerging Technology (GET) project includes research into site screening criteria and sizing methods for gas absorption heat pump water heaters (GAHPs). GAHPs have been around for many years, but the application of this technology to domestic hot water (DHW) systems is novel and presents several challenges. Legacy DHW heaters are often sized for the maximum expected DHW load and can meet the maximum and minimum expected DHW loads. GAHPs, on the other hand, require a minimum DHW load to function optimally with a fixed baseline load and are recommended to be sized to 40-60% of the DHW load. There is evidence that the DHW heater/boiler sizing methods currently in use overestimate DHW load, which becomes a problem when the GAHP requires a minimum load to function properly. Further complicating matters is the fact that many DHW retrofit projects in the multifamily segment are completed by contracting companies who do not have engineering staff to run DHW sizing calculations or come up with new designs for each retrofit project. Contractors generally rely on outside engineers or manufacturers to provide them with recommended DHW heater/boiler capacities and designs. Additionally, contractors need to have rough ideas of project costs up front to sell a project to a multifamily property. In order for the GAHP to be successful as an energy efficiency (EE) measure in the California multifamily market, the contractor community needs to be provided with tools to quickly screen sites for GAHP retrofits and determine the appropriate number of GAHPs to install and appropriate system design. This project seeks to bridge that gap by researching existing methods of DHW sizing, researching what information contractors can typically collect, and providing recommendations for site screening criteria and GAHP sizing and design.
This study aims to characterize the performance of a Robur Gas Absorption Heat Pump (GAHP)-A unit to sufficiently populate model inputs in Energy Plus. Gas Technology Institute (GTI) Energy will serve as a contractor for this study. They will develop a test plan including instrumentation, plumbing, and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) and testing tolerances and the commission the unit to carry out all equipment commissioning according to the manufacturer's rating conditions and laboratory testing. The testing will consist of both static performance mapping and transient performance mapping. At the completion of the testing, GTI will generate curve fits and implement them in the Energy Plus GAHP model.
This project will gather burner efficiency data for commercial boilers using existing and emerging ultra-low-NOx burner technologies. The testing will characterize the complete system efficiency of the burner and boiler system including combustion efficiency, fuel efficiency, equipment power consumption, and thermal efficiency. A report documenting the comparisons will be completed. The project will help quantify the emissions benefits and potential efficiency gains for the emerging ClearSign Core™ ultra-low-NOx technologies compared to baseline "most comparable" conventional ultra-low-NOx technologies.
This project will focus on an upcoming technology that utilizes satellites to map methane emissions and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Our primary focus will be methane emissions due to leaks on the customer side of the meter. As a market based study that aims to looks at potential market barriers, the goal is to gain a better understanding of current and potential customers of this technology. The main drivers that have lead to satellite implementation include cost savings, preservation of resources, and government led incentive programs.
The industrial and commercial industries across California will be of primary focus. Currently, the largest emitters lie within the oil and gas industry, therefore, there is increased support to offset emissions utilizing equipment replacements, retrofitting, or emissions capture. In addition to these system retrofits, satellite technologies have proven useful as a supplement to 'on-the-ground' advancements in controlling methane emissions. With the advancements and funding agencies that have invested in satellite program launches, there exists the potential to expand upon satellite utilization to lesser known point sources to further reduce the GHG effects of methane leaks. Following a thorough market study as phase 1 of this project, there is the possibility that further program support such as field work, pilot scale testing, and/or outreach efforts will be required as a subsequent phase 2. Furthermore, the insights and conclusions of this project have the potential to lead to the development of custom projects where similar equipment failures/leaks are discovered such that a widespread SEM or BRO approach that would provide additional emissions and cost reductions.
Energy Modeling & Analysis of Dual Fuel Heating System, Single Family
This project is proposed to perform energy modeling and analysis of dual fuel heating systems in the single-family homes of California. The study will model different dual fuel heating scenarios using DEER Energy Plus single family prototype models built around several parameters such as switchover temperature between natural gas and electric, emission factors, outside air temperatures and utility rates. A combination of Energy Plus simulations, spreadsheet analysis and SME interviews will be used. This proposed study will guide utilities, end users and manufacturers to determine how the dual fuel heating system can maximize both energy savings and carbon emissions reductions in the near term.
This technology focused pilot is part of another project with Clean O2 where field testing will be separately performed. The separate GET project with CleanO2 will involve field testing on the CarbinX Unit.
This project will be a market study that seeks to identify barriers implementing the CarbinX technology, identify potential customers, and provide a means to address the barriers. The goal of the study is to help transform the market based on the results of the market study by identifying potential customers, opportunities for the CarbinX pearl ash, and working with an EE program to offer this as a measure.
ERI is proposing to perform a market and technology study that will begin with a market assessment of Vortex Water Treatment (VWT) technology and applications in use in California. The resulting study will analyze current technologies utilized during ice resurfacing in ice arenas and the energy savings potential from utilizing VWT. Once completed, a technology assessment will be performed to determine barriers and implementation strategy into the market. The completion of this technology assessment will be designed to have a VWT measure ready project for programs to implement or design a workpaper.
This study aims to analyze and identify energy-efficient equipment and processes related to natural gas consumption in California crematoriums. The objective is to understand the current state of natural gas usage crematories, innovative technologies, and provide recommendations for implementing efficient practices in the cremation industry. Both human and animal crematoriums will be investigated.
This project will be a market assessment on California hospitals to evaluate the current natural gas end use technology present in hospitals today. This study will look at existing data on hospital equipment use, energy, and natural gas consumption, and conduct research to assess the potential for applying specific EE measures to different hospital appliances. The goal of this market study will be to understand where the largest cost savings opportunities exist and where additional program support is needed. The study will provide recommendations that can provide the customer gas savings by suggesting new measures, addressing barriers to equipment use, and providing feedback to address program gaps.
This project is part of a multiphase approach to explore the controlled environment agriculture (CEA) market potential and assess individual technologies impacts on for this customer segment. The first phase of this project is a market assessment of the various technologies and applications in use for CEA indoor facilities and greenhouses in California. The study will investigate the percentage of greenhouses and indoor facilities that are utilizing natural gas equipment, market penetration of new innovated technology, and energy saving potential for increased adoption of new and/or underutilized technologies. Based on the findings in the first phase, a follow up study (Phase two) will be proposed to conduct a more in-depth assessment of the highest potential technologies to identify market barriers and intervention strategies to address these barriers. The end state of both phases will identify cost-effective gas efficiency measures for the CEA sector and present a road map to integration into program offerings, including needs for new or updated measure packages.
Market Assessment of Emerging Ultra Low-NOX Burner Technologies
The project will research emerging Ultra-low NOx (ULN) Burner technologies to provide actionable recommendations of technologies and gaps for further study by the GET program. This project will research and evaluate cost-effective, efficient, and ultra-low emission burner technologies including burner geometry designs, and add-on controls. A final report documenting the findings will be developed, which will provide investor-owned utilities with information to assess the retrofit feasibility, add-on control feasibility, and the operating cost of these new ULN burner technologies.
This project will be an updated and broad approach to look at specific measures for enhancing the energy efficiency (EE) of boilers in CA IOU territory. Rather than focusing on boiler retrofits, which are already part of the IOU portfolio, this study will investigate the potential for add on and maintenance EE measures for the boiler portion of the heating, how water or process heating part of the system.
To do this, we will investigate, the following aspects:
1. Estimated number of boilers by sector/end use
2. Relative prevalence of these measures in commercial and industrial facilities
3. Estimate the cost effectiveness (TRC/BST) of these measures
4. Identify any specific market barriers and/or opportunities to implement these measures
5. Develop a short list of boiler centric technologies that should be added to or optimized for program delivery.
This project is proposed to research and analyze the market of Infrared (IR) heating technologies to provide actionable recommendations of technologies and gaps for further study by the Statewide Gas Emerging Technologies (GET) program. This project will cover IR heating systems in industrial and commercial sectors, including high-intensity (ceramic or luminous radiators) and low-intensity radiant tube heaters.
The goal of this study would be understanding the major opportunities to improve energy efficiency in different sectors, with proper equipment selection, use of standards, engineering designs and controls, and where additional program support is needed, including updated metrics, potential field work, outreach, and/or work paper development activities. This project aligns with Goal 1 of the 2022 GET Annual Research Plan.
Gas-Fired Heat Pump Water Heating & Combination System Pilot - Phase 1
This project is phase 1 of a multi-phase pilot project for gas-fired heat pump water heaters & combination systems. This phase 1 project will do all the groundwork for the future phase 2 and 3 projects to install gas-fired water heating/combination equipment at various sites around California. The future planned phases that are not part of this scope are:
Phase 2F: Field testing work
Phase 2L: Lab testing work
Phase 3F: Additional field testing and/or field-testing hand-off
Phase 3L: Additional lab testing and/or modeling work
This phase 1 project includes a visit to a site where one of these technologies has been installed, create a project screening tool, create an installation & design checklist, create a generic M&V plan for energy consumption/savings and performance curves, and create a generic hourly CO2 analysis approach.
This Emerging Technology (ET) study project is proposed to research & analyze energy efficient (EE) technology adoption trends, barriers to EE equipment adoption, and gain feedback on installed EE equipment in the commercial food service (CFS) market to provide actionable recommendations to improve adoption and recommend technologies for further field testing and/or a pilot. This project will examine natural gas fired CFS equipment and CFS equipment that uses hot water including: convection ovens, steamers, fryers, combination ovens, conveyor ovens, griddles, conveyor broilers, rack ovens, steam tables and dishwashers. It will cover chain restaurants, independently owned restaurants, and institutional kitchens (universities, nursing homes, hotels, etc.…). The research findings will be presented in the ET report template and will include several easy-to-understand charts and tables. This project aligns with Goal 3 Objective 1 of the 2022 GET Annual Research Plan.
This project will explore the feasibility and a possible approach to develop a labeling process in CA (and potentially in the USA) that would provide a uniform means to label gas appliances for use with hydrogen blended natural gas. This would allow the consumers to understand if their appliances could be used for future potential changes to the natural gas fuel mix to address climate change. The UK has recently rolled out a labeling system, and their experiences and process would be a starting point for this effort. The project will not only look at the UK model, but other related topics such as energy consumption impacts that will likely provide a different model than was done in the UK.
This Emerging Technology (ET) study project is proposed to research emerging gas-fired water heating technologies in order to provide actionable recommendations of technologies and gaps for further study by the Statewide Gas Emerging Technologies (GET) program. This project will cover both residential (single-family and multi-family) and small commercial sector water heating systems and will include gas storage water heaters, tankless water heaters, dual-fuel water heaters, combination space & water heating systems, and water heating controls specific to emerging technologies. Research will focus on emerging technologies that are ready for lab or field studies, but other technologies that are more nascent may be included based on feedback from project stakeholders and the Technology Advisory Group (TAG). We will also evaluate incremental barriers as a forward-looking analysis to ensure that the technology is a good fit for CA programs. The research findings will be presented in the ET report template. This project aligns with Goal 1 – Phase 2 of the 2022 GET Annual Research Plan.
This Emerging Technology (ET) study project is proposed to analyze & research natural gas water heating technology adoption trends in existing California Investor-owned utilities (IOUs) offered Energy Efficiency (EE) incentive programs, perform market research to understand technology adoption drivers and barriers, and provide actionable recommendations to improve program success. This project will cover both residential (single-family and multi-family) and commercial sector water heating systems will include gas storage water heaters, tankless water heaters, dual-fuel water heaters, water heating controls, hot water conservation measures (i.e., low flow showerheads, faucet aerators, etc..), and combination space & water heating systems. The research findings will be presented in the ET report template and will include several easy-to-understand charts and tables. This project aligns with Goal 1 of the 2022 GET Annual Research Plan.