Upcoming Trade Shows in Italy for Heating

Italy’s heating industry stands on the precipice of major structural changes led by the government as part of a wider strategy to reduce the country’s energy consumption for heating as well as align Italy with the EU’s ambitious plans for a net zero future. Innovation, efficiency and environmental responsibility were at the heart of the influential online workshop held by the Italian National Team in late 2023. The event was a global affair with participants from 17 countries, which lent their expertise in policy evolution, and cutting-edge research. Sergio Bobbo of the CNR-ITC shared insights from the IEA-HPT Annex 54, shedding light on the Italian team’s experience. Their focus within the lab revolves around measuring various thermophysical parameters, particularly honing in on HFOs. Bobbo presented findings from the GEO4CIVHIC–Horizon2020 project, where the quest for optimal replacements for R134a and R410A in geothermal heat pumps was undertaken. The preliminary results showcased R454B as a promising substitute for R410A in high-pressure refrigerants, while R516A emerged as the most efficient low-pressure refrigerant. Ferdinando Pozzani of TEON delved into the company’s innovative strides towards sustainable heating with a presentation titled “Innovation for Sustainable Heating: A New Generation of High Temperature.” He shared TEON's journey spanning years of applied research leading to patented solutions that garnered recognition for their emission-free attributes. TEON has been developing solutions for heating and cooling that promise a minimal environmental impact that aim to create healthier urban environments. Luca Gugliermetti from ENEA brought the workshop to a close with insights into the Solair-HP project. Focused on developing and testing a novel solar-assisted trans-critical CO2 heat pump, the project aims to reduce electrical usage through solar thermal sources. Luca highlighted the use of CO2 with low Global Warming Potential and a patented photovoltaic hybrid solar panel as potent eco-friendly and renewable energy-driven alternatives.