Within the framework of the exchanges with the Danish Technological Institute (DTI) for the development of heat pumps in the industry in Uruguay, different activities were carried out during the week of June 17-21, 2024, in which we counted with the presence of PhD Joaquín Aguilera Prado.

These activities are part of REIF's contribution to the development of knowledge and technology transfer, enabling national companies to exchange international experience and evaluate adoption.

The week was developed with two main types of activities: presentations to stakeholders, such as technicians and advisors, industry, academia and government, and on the other hand, specific visits to plants in industries identified as having the potential to incorporate the technology.

The exchanges were promising, with interest from the parties detected in learning more about a technology that is beginning to be commercially available, and its possible application to replace fossil fuel generation in the industry.

Some of the conclusions we can draw from these exchanges are as follows:

- High-temperature heat pumps have great potential, both economically and for the decarbonization of industry.

- Technology developments are focused on process heating with water vapor temperatures up to 250 ºC.

- Rapid adoption of the technology is expected by 2025 to 2030, with systems validated and under demonstration, depending on demand needs.

- There are a variety of technologies and manufacturers needed to offer competitive solutions.

There are, however, some challenges on the road to implementation, particularly in the case of Uruguay, that will allow the first cases to materialize and generate market deployment.

- Need for holistic analysis, with process integration and decarbonization strategies as a key factor for optimal performance.

- Multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral research and development is required to exploit the potential of the technology.

- It is necessary to follow a path of development of technology suppliers, and to know the existing options, in order to analyze projects that present potential and to validate their suitability.

- To learn about the regulations and regulatory framework to remove barriers to adoption, and eventually analyze promotional measures associated with emissions reduction and energy efficiency.

We hope that REIF will continue to contribute to the dissemination of innovative technologies such as high temperature heat pumps, and to support the realization of projects with flexible financing adapted to specific needs.