Residential Variable Capacity Heat Pump Research and Field Study

Bend, Oregon

Advancing Emerging Technology with Real-World Data

Ecotope partnered with the Bonneville Power Administration and industry stakeholders to evaluate the real‑world performance and energy savings potential of emerging variable‑capacity heat pump (VCHP) systems. The research effort began with engineering modeling to compare projected VCHP performance to conventional baseline systems, ultimately validating the need for field testing and supporting the Regional Technical Forum’s provisional Unit Energy Savings measure. Ecotope then led a field study across homes in Central Oregon to characterize installation conditions, collect performance data, and better understand how these systems operate in mixed‑climate housing stock.

Technically, Ecotope developed and executed the full measurement and verification plan—including metering of temperature, airflow, and energy consumption over multiple weeks—to quantify system efficiency and evaluate duct performance. Using a combination of field data, standardized duct‑loss methodologies, and calibrated simulations, Ecotope closed the loop between modeled and measured results to refine savings algorithms and support the advancement of VCHPs as a proven energy‑efficiency measure. This work continues to inform regional program development and expands BPA’s understanding of decarbonization pathways in existing residential buildings.

Learn more about this project here:

• Residential Variable Capacity Heat Pump Field Study. Bonneville Power Administration, August 2013.