World News

Industry news and insights from Europe and around the World

UK News

Latest news and developments in the United Kingdom

Products

Keep up-to-date with the latest new products and technology

Features

General articles, applications and industry analysis

LG extends heat pump research to China

SOUTH KOREA: LG Electronics has expanded its global heat pump R&D network with the establishment of the Chinese Consortium for Advanced Heat Pump Research (CCAHR) in Harbin. 

The Chinese consortium, which joins existing LG-led initiatives in North America and Europe, will develop next-generation core technologies for HVAC solutions capable of providing strong, dependable performance in extreme cold conditions.

It will operate new research facilities in Harbin and Mohe City. Harbin, known for its harsh winter conditions, and Mohe, where temperatures can drop to below -50ºC, are seen as ideal settings for advancing LG’s research into heat pump technologies that can maintain high efficiency in severely cold climates. 

CCHAR will conduct tests on the company’s HVAC solutions, including residential air conditioners, at two facilities: a university-owned building at the Harbin Institute of Technology campus, and a residential site in Mohe. The consortium will gather comprehensive operational data to improve the heating performance, energy efficiency and overall reliability of LG’s HVAC products.

The Chinese consortium is seen as a significant addition to LG’s growing international R&D collaborations, complementing the consortiums established in Korea and the US last November, and in Europe this June. 

During a recent CEO-led investor forum, LG outlined four key strategies for business portfolio innovation, including the acceleration of its B2B capabilities – particularly in the area of HVAC. By leveraging its inverter, heat pump and chiller technologies, LG says it aims to lead the market in high-efficiency HVAC solutions, while actively targeting the growing demand for cooling systems, especially in AI data centres.

Additionally, in key markets, LG’s HVAC business is establishing a locally self-sufficient operation system encompassing the in-house production of core components and the creation of production bases optimised for regional supply. This system, which covers everything from R&D to sales and maintenance, greatly enhances LG’s B2B capabilities and is expected to support meaningful long-term growth.

Latest News

21st January 2025

Scottish home for Panasonic’s first propane heat pump

UK: A five-bedroom bungalow in Thurso, Scotland, is the first property in the UK to install Panasonic’s propane Aquarea 9kW M Series heat pump.
21st January 2025

Strand named president of Danfoss Climate Solutions

DENMARK: Kristian Strand has been named president of Danfoss Climate Solutions. He succeeds Jürgen Fischer who is retiring after 16 years with the company.
21st January 2025

AI-powered app enhances troubleshooting

USA: Copeland has launched a new release of its Copeland Mobile app that includes its Scout AI chatbot to enhance troubleshooting, education and productivity.
20th January 2025

Tests confirm sterilization effects of HClO

JAPAN: Panasonic claims to have verified the sterilisation effect of hypochlorous acid on airborne and attached bacteria in tests with Gunma Paz University.
20th January 2025

Webinar explores new efficiency policies 

ITALY: Carel is to host a free-to-register webinar on the subject of the revised European energy performance of buildings directive (EPBD) and the new eco-design regulation (ESPR).
19th January 2025

Dinnergate dispute rumbles on

UK: Former Institute of Refrigeration president Graeme Fox has opened an online vote calling for current president Lisa-Jayne Cook to be removed as an IoR board trustee.