Future-Hybrid – Complexity Reduction for Heat Pump Hybrid Systems of the Future

Duration: 07/2023 - 06/2026
Contracting Authority/ Sponsors: Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)
Project Partners: Bosch Thermotechnik GmbH
Project Focus:
Diagram of a hybrid system with an air source heat pump, a gas boiler and a domestic hot water cylinder.
© Fraunhofer ISE
Diagram of a hybrid system with an air source heat pump, a gas boiler and a domestic hot water cylinder.

This project aims to resolve current uncertainties regarding costs, system selection and actual efficiency when installing hybrid heat pumps in existing buildings. Methodologically, this is achieved by developing system concept that reduces  complexity, combined with a modular certification system. This includes partial integration, prefabrication of the system components and a simplified certification methodology, which should lead to a reduction in initial costs. 

In addition, the system is to be developed in such a way that it can be converted to a fossil-free system with little effort during its service life (e.g. after an envelope renovation of the building).

First, a modular system for flexible system dimensioning will be developed. Based on this, a methodology for reliable context-related system design and simplified quality-assured commissioning will be created. This automated model-based design selects suitable components and system parameters for the respective application from the modular system. The close integration of planning and commissioning, including an interface for transferring the operating parameters resulting from the design, reduces costs, increases reliability and boosts efficiency.

To maintain operational efficiency , automated system monitoring will be investigated, with AI-based methods implemented directly on the existing control device in a decentralized manner. . High data resolution should enable faults in transient operation to be reliably detected and rectified. This functionality is an ideal addition to the online system monitoring that will be available in the future and provide essential functionality even for systems without internet access. 

Sustainable Development Goals

The "Future-Hybrid" research project contributes to achieving the sustainability goals in these areas:

More Information on this Topic:

Research Topic

Heat Pumps

Research Topic

Building System Technology

Business Area

Climate-Neutral Heat and Buildings