Verzuolo, Italy —[10/07/2024]— HAPPENING EU pilot project developed in Verzuolo is now fully operational thanks to the work developed by local partner Tecnozenith in this area. This means a significant milestone step towards demonstrating the viability and efficiency of integrating heat pump technology with photovoltaic systems in residential settings.

The HAPPENING EU project continues to pave the way for more sustainable energy solutions. It shows that integrating advanced heat pump technology with renewable energy sources is feasible and beneficial. This pilot project is a model for future installations, showcasing the potential for significant energy savings and reduced environmental impact.

Local partners Tecnozenith and EURAC have been actively developing this successful pilot project, being a reference in Verzuolo.

The benefits of HAPPENING technology

Lorenzo Civalleri, pilot project coordinator member of HAPPENING partner Tecnozenith, emphasised the expected efficiency benefits. “Energy savings are challenging to assess now, as cooling is newly introduced, PV panels contribute to energy supply, and part of the building still uses the old system,” he explained.

And this could be functioning quickly. The installation works were completed in a structured and timely manner. It took one month to set up the photovoltaic installation, which included mounting PV panels on the roof and installing inverters, storage, and safety devices in the technical room. The hydraulic system installation took an additional two months”, added Civalleri.

Regarding the costs and incentives, Civalleri mentioned that European funds covered part of the installation costs, and the heat pumps were provided by a project partner. However, other funds can easily afford this, as “under normal circumstances, building owners can apply for incentives covering 50% of photovoltaic costs and 65% of heat pump installation costs through tax deductions,” he added.

Regarding applying HAPPENING technology to other locations, Tim Diller, EURAC HAPPENING partner researcher involved in this pilot project, highlighted the potential for widespread adoption. “Generally, these systems can be built anywhere, but their efficiency varies with climate. Regions requiring heating and cooling will benefit the most,” Diller remarked.