Regulatory framework for the promotion of heat pumps in the European Union

Heat pumps (HPs) are viewed by the European Union (EU) as a decisive instrument for accomplishing the goals of net zero emissions by 2050. This technology has the potential to help reach this goal by allowing greater integration of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat. With a particular focus on industry applications, this paper reviews the evolution of the regulatory frameworks and policy efforts for the promotion of HPs at the EU level and assesses the achievement of the set goals. The imperative decarbonization of the industrial sector stands as a critical milestone in realizing the ambitious 2050 targets, constituting nearly 26 % of the EU's total final energy demand. This manuscript delineates the industrial sectors and process applications where HPs could potentially increase energy efficiency, shedding light on the primary obstacles hindering their widespread deployment. Moreover, the study delves into the landscape of ongoing research and development (R&D) projects within the EU, showcasing tangible evidence of the feasibility of HP application. Comprehensive in scope, the paper provides a thorough examination of existing policies related to HPs at both the EU and Member States levels, emphasizing a glaring absence of a robust regulatory framework necessary to propel the widespread adoption of this technology in EU industries. Furthermore, the manuscript also provides indications on possible ways of promoting HTHPs in the industrial sector, with attention not to repeating the mistakes that occurred in the past with the promotion of renewable energy. It is expected that the conclusions extracted can be of interest to developers and policymakers as well as to practitioners of other emerging technologies committed to emissions reduction in heat production.