Key Takeaways
- Carrier Global Corporation has launched commercial field trials for its next-generation rooftop heat pump technology, designed for broad commercial adoption.
- The new 10-14-ton rooftop heat pump unit has completed DOE lab verification testing, setting a performance benchmark for cold-climate commercial rooftop systems.
- Carrier’s rooftop heat pump systems have met or exceeded targets for IVHE, IVHEc, and COPs, reinforcing confidence in their readiness for scaled commercial deployment.
- The DOE’s Commercial Building HVAC Technology Challenge aims to accelerate adoption of advanced HVAC equipment that lowers energy use and operating costs while supporting grid reliability.
- Commercial availability of Carrier’s new rooftop heat pump technology is anticipated in summer 2027.
Introduction to Carrier’s Next-Generation Rooftop Heat Pump Technology
Carrier Global Corporation, a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, has announced a major milestone in the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Commercial Building HVAC Technology Challenge. The company has launched commercial field trials for its next-generation rooftop heat pump technology, designed for broad commercial adoption. This innovation is expected to strengthen U.S. commercial buildings by providing high-performance systems that demonstrate cold-climate capability, efficiency gains, and lower operating costs.
The Importance of the DOE’s Commercial Building HVAC Technology Challenge
The DOE’s Commercial Building HVAC Technology Challenge is designed to accelerate adoption of advanced HVAC equipment that lowers energy use and operating costs while supporting grid reliability through lower demand. The program includes two light commercial product categories — 10-14 tons and 15-25 tons — with Carrier participating in both as part of its broader commitment to innovation and helping customers reach their sustainability and cost-saving goals. By supporting the development and deployment of high-performance HVAC systems, the DOE aims to reduce the environmental impact of commercial buildings and promote a more sustainable future.
Carrier’s Rooftop Heat Pump Technology and Its Performance
Carrier’s new 10-14-ton rooftop heat pump unit has been installed at a large national retailer in upstate New York as part of ongoing field trials. The system was the first in its range to complete DOE lab verification testing, setting a performance benchmark for cold-climate commercial rooftop systems by delivering 100% heating capacity at 5°F, more than 70% heating capacity at -10°F, and performance that meets or exceeds DOE’s commercial HVAC efficiency thresholds. Additionally, Carrier’s 15-ton rooftop unit is undergoing testing at the DOE’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee and is expected to begin field trials at a commercial facility in Pennsylvania in the coming weeks.
Field Trials and Verification
The field trials will be monitored and verified by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and are expected to conclude in summer 2027. Commercial availability is anticipated in summer 2027. Across independent testing conducted by the DOE, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and NREL, Carrier’s rooftop heat pump systems have met or exceeded targets for IVHE, IVHEc, and COPs, reinforcing confidence in their readiness for scaled commercial deployment, including strong cold-climate operation. The successful completion of these field trials will demonstrate the effectiveness of Carrier’s next-generation rooftop heat pump technology in real-world commercial environments.
About Carrier Global Corporation
Carrier Global Corporation, a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, is committed to creating innovations that bring comfort, safety, and sustainability to life. Through cutting-edge advancements in climate solutions such as temperature control, air quality, and transportation, Carrier improves lives, empowers critical industries, and ensures the safe transport of food, life-saving medicines, and more. Since inventing modern air conditioning in 1902, Carrier has led with purpose: enhancing the lives we live and the world we share. The company continues to lead because of its world-class, inclusive workforce that puts the customer at the center of everything it does.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, Carrier Global Corporation’s launch of commercial field trials for its next-generation rooftop heat pump technology marks a significant milestone in the development of high-performance HVAC systems for commercial buildings. The successful completion of these field trials will demonstrate the effectiveness of Carrier’s innovation in real-world commercial environments and pave the way for its commercial availability in summer 2027. As the company continues to lead in the development of intelligent climate and energy solutions, it is likely to play a key role in shaping the future of the HVAC industry and promoting a more sustainable and energy-efficient built environment.
