Nationwide Boiler Inc. Showcases Innovative Heat Pump Solutions at IDEA Campus Energy 2025

Nationwide Boiler made waves at the IDEA Campus Energy 2025 Conference held in Boston, Massachusetts from February 3-6, 2025. The event served as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge solutions in district energy systems. A highlight of the conference was the presentation by Gordon Judd, Business Development Executive at Nationwide Boiler, who introduced innovative distributed heat pump configurations for district energy systems. The approach focuses on unlocking the hidden potential of chill water return lines to boost revenue and enhance energy efficiency.

Key Takeaways from Judd's Presentation

Heat Exchangers vs. Heat Pumps

Judd began by explaining the fundamental difference between heat exchangers and heat pumps:

• Heat exchangers allow heat to flow from hot to cold sources.

• Heat pumps use electricity to reverse this process, moving heat from cold to hot sources.

This distinction is crucial for understanding the potential of heat pumps in district energy systems.

Innovative Use of Chilled Water Return Lines
Judd presented three scenarios demonstrating how heat pumps can leverage chilled water return lines:

1. Adding Cooling Capacity: A 400-ton cooling load was added to a fully subscribed system by connecting to the return line and using a heat pump, achieving a remarkable coefficient of performance (COP) of 6.91.

2. Providing Domestic Hot Water: A 500-room hotel's hot water needs were met using the chilled water return line as a heat source, with a COP of 3.8 for heating.     

3. Space Heating Solution: A small commercial building's failing boiler was replaced with a heat pump system, utilizing the chilled water return line to provide 140°F water for space heating.

Benefits of Distributed Heat Pump Configurations 
Judd highlighted several advantages of this approach:

• Increased system capacity without central plant upgrades.

• New revenue streams from previously untapped resources.

• Improved overall energy efficiency.

• Carbon-free heating solutions compared to traditional gas boilers.

Implications for District Energy Providers
The presentation demonstrated that district energy providers can:

1. Add new customers without expensive infrastructure upgrades

2. Offer both heating and cooling services using existing chilled water systems

3. Improve system efficiency and reduce carbon emissions

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Campus Energy Systems

Gordon Judd's presentation at IDEA CampusEnergy 2025 showcased the immense potential of distributed heat pump configurations in district energy systems. By harnessing the untapped potential of chilled water return lines, campus energy providers can create new revenue streams, increase efficiency, and move towards more sustainable operations.

Nationwide Boiler remains committed to energy efficiency advancements, and our presence at this conference highlights that focus. Representing Oilon heat pumps, we are proud to offer innovative solutions that support decarbonization and energy savings. As we continue to explore and implement these cutting-edge solutions, we look forward to helping our clients optimize their energy systems for a more sustainable future.

For those interested in learning more, visit www.nationwideboiler.com or contact Gordon Judd at gjudd@nationwideboiler.com.