Leveraging System Dynamic Models for Advancing Large-Scale Transcritical CO₂ Heat Pump Development

Industrial transcritical carbon dioxide (CO2) heat pumps, such as those developed by MAN Energy Solutions Schweiz AG (MAN ES), provide a proven method for decarbonizing district heating and hold potential for sector coupling applications. However, transitioning from conventional energy sources to decarbonized renewable solutions increases grid frequency dynamics, necessitating complex dynamic models for optimal energy management.  

This presentation addresses the need for precise dynamic models to manage the risks and opportunities of this energy transition. We introduce a detailed Modelica model of a high-temperature CO2 heat pump, emphasizing the refrigerant’s thermodynamic states during load variations. The model is validated against testbed data from a MAN ES heat pump, which delivers over 35 MW of heat with a temperature lift from 40 to 100 K. Insights from dynamic simulations enhance our understanding of how decarbonized energy networks respond by linking electricity and heat supply, ultimately aiding in the development and optimization of complex control strategies.