UAA and LG open heat pump labs for cold-climate HVAC research

The Consortium for Advanced Heat Pump Research, the groundbreaking partnership between the University of Alaska Anchorage and LG Electronics Inc. (LG), has opened state-of-the-art, real-world-simulated labs to conduct comprehensive studies on cold-climate HVAC and heat pump solutions.

LG and university researchers will conduct their studies in two dedicated cold climate heat pump labs located in Anchorage and Fairbanks. These facilities are uniquely configured to replicate home environments, enabling a realistic and practical approach to heat pump research. The labs will utilize a variety of LG's cutting-edge HVAC solutions, including both ducted and duct-free indoor and outdoor units. LG's advanced Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump and Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater will be used in the research.

"The research conducted between LG Electronics and UAA will provide groundbreaking insight into heat pump technology to create the best performing, most energy-efficient solutions possible," said UAA Chancellor Sean Parnell. "We're proud to bring this cornerstone of our university to the HVAC market with LG."

The advanced LG Cold Climate Heat Pump Lab in Anchorage is a dedicated testing facility, designed to evaluate the performance of new heat pump systems. All new cold climate products for the North American market will undergo rigorous testing in this lab before launch. The Fairbanks facility can test in temperatures below negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

The labs will also spearhead a heat pump project funded by the Department of Energy beginning at the end of the year.

The demand for high-efficiency, low-carbon-emission heat pumps is rapidly increasing, driven by global electrification and decarbonization trends. Despite operating challenges in colder climates that have previously hindered heat pump growth in extreme temperatures, LG is leveraging its cutting-edge heat pump technology to deliver region-specific heating and cooling solutions for the global market.

"Heat pump technology is integral to decarbonization efforts, and the research conducted at these new labs will help to further drive progress," said Chris Ahn, president of LG Eco Solutions USA, "Heat pump systems are the primary target for IRA (Inflation Reduction Act) funding in most states, including those in colder climates. By testing the performance of these solutions in the extreme cold weather in Alaska, we can help to build confidence in the market to increase adoption and advance sustainability."

The consortium partnership between LG and UAA, launched a year ago, brings together LG experts, university researchers, local industry and government agencies to drive market transformation through research on heat pump technology and electrification. The new labs christened this week will showcase the breadth of LG's HVAC product capabilities in heating and cooling, setting new benchmarks for energy efficiency and sustainability, while championing environmentally responsible solutions.

The work of the Consortium for Advanced Heat Pump Research exemplifies Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy's focus on nurturing impactful technology initiatives built on strong public-private partnerships. "Together, researchers from the University of Alaska Anchorage and global innovator LG Electronics are advancing the state of the art in heat pump technology," the governor said. "These advanced research labs show how new business and investment in Alaska can have a major impact on our nation and the world."

The Alaska consortium is an integral component of LG's extensive network of heat pump research partnerships across Korea, Europe and China. These collaborations collectively form the Global Consortium for Advanced Heat Pump Research, demonstrating LG's dedication to broadening its research and development programs. LG's strategic formation of the consortiums has resulted in a robust, global R&D infrastructure, and the wide-reaching approach equips LG with the capability to develop technologies that cater to the unique climatic and housing conditions regionally.

The role of the global R&D triangle is pivotal, not only strengthening LG's leadership position in HVAC technology but also shaping the trajectory of HVAC for a brighter, greener future.

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