Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), a leading name in intelligent climate and energy solutions, has initiated its first field trials for innovative battery-enabled HVAC systems. These trials aim to evaluate the potential of these systems to store and shift energy during critical periods of grid demand.
David Gitlin, Chairman & CEO of Carrier, emphasized the company’s historical role in climate technology, stating, “Carrier has been shaping the future of climate technology since Willis Carrier invented modern air conditioning in 1902. Now, we’re installing our first battery-enabled HVAC systems in homes to validate performance. These systems can help strengthen the grid, support renewable integration and maintain comfort — all while adapting to evolving energy demands.”
With the U.S. power grid facing challenges such as aging infrastructure, unprecedented heat, and increasing demand from data centers and industries, Carrier Energy — the company’s newly established energy management solutions arm — is collaborating with utilities and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to explore the concept of homes as flexible Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).
The trials will focus on the performance of Carrier’s next-generation HVAC systems, which combine efficient variable-speed heat pumps with battery storage. By doing so, the company aims to assess how these systems can effectively reduce peak energy demand by shifting energy usage from peak to off-peak periods. This transition could enhance grid flexibility and resilience.
With approximately 30 million Carrier HVAC units already installed in North American households, representing over 100 GW of potential flexible demand, the impact of these systems could be significant. When implemented at scale, such technologies could provide utilities with a powerful means to manage electricity demand effectively.
“This trial is a clear demonstration of how Carrier can help contribute to a more resilient, intelligent grid,” remarked Hakan Yilmaz, Chief Technology & Sustainability Officer and leader of Carrier Energy. “With data to be delivered by EPRI, we’re showing that smart home energy solutions are not a future concept — they’re happening now.”
The outcomes of these trials promise to shape the future of energy management within homes while reinforcing Carrier’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the energy sector.