TÜV NORD is investing 1.5 million euros in a new heat pump test facility in Essen. The company aims to become the leading European testing service provider in this segment. Together with the existing test facilities in the company's refrigeration and air conditioning laboratory, this will create a globally unique offering. “With our new test facility, we will actively support the heat and energy transition," says Monika Steimle, Head of Testing at TÜV NORD.
Heat pumps are set to give the heating and energy transition a boost. This is why manufacturers are currently developing many new systems and investing billions in their development. Double-digit growth rates are expected in this market in the medium to long term. However, there is a lack of test facilities for independent assessments: Their number and performance limits are not sufficient to meet the increasing demand in line with requirements. The new TÜV NORD laboratory will close this gap, especially as the technical know-how and the necessary accreditations are already available. Further accreditations are being sought, for example for the testing of heat pumps for domestic hot water heating.
Construction of the new test facility will begin in July, with trial operation scheduled to start in November. “We assume that the first tests on behalf of customers can take place in the first quarter of 2025," says Monika Steimle. “We have already received inquiries from all over the world – the demand is there." The new test facility will be able to carry out performance tests on heat pumps up to 100 kW and simulated outside temperatures down to –30° C. Together with the other existing test facilities at the TÜV NORD CAMPUS in Essen, a complete range of third-party tests for refrigeration and air-conditioning technology is being created with the full range of tests in all performance classes, at all temperatures and with all refrigerants. For example, central ventilation units for air conditioning in office buildings, process chillers for industry and devices for cooling data centers can be tested.
About TÜV NORD GROUP
Since our foundation more than 150 years ago, we have been the global byword for security and trust. As a knowledge-based company, we have the digital future firmly in mind. With specialists ranging from engineers and IT security professionals to professionals for the mobility of tomorrow, we use our expertise in over 100 countries to ensure that our customers will be even more successful in the networked world.
