Björn Palm: Smarter Heat Pumps Will Drive Europe’s Energy Transition
Swedish manufacturers are betting on AI, smart controls, and greener refrigerants to make heat pumps more efficient. Professor Björn Palm was interviewed by Ny Teknik on the topic.
Ny Teknik recently published an article titled “Mapping: How Swedish Manufacturers Want to Make Heat Pumps More Efficient,” exploring how Swedish companies are preparing to lead Europe’s shift to sustainable heating. As the continent moves away from fossil fuels, demand for efficient, climate-friendly solutions is soaring - and Swedish manufacturers are stepping up with innovation.
The industry’s strategy centers on advanced technologies such as smart control systems and artificial intelligence (AI). These solutions allow heat pumps to adapt to real-time electricity prices, weather conditions, and household consumption patterns, making them more cost-effective and helping stabilize the power grid as renewable energy grows. By optimizing when and how heat pumps operate, these systems can significantly reduce energy costs for consumers while improving overall efficiency.
Professor Björn Palm from KTH, interviewed as an expert, underscored the pivotal role of heat pumps in Europe’s climate transition. “Heat pumps will be a cornerstone in Europe’s shift to sustainable heating,” he said, highlighting Sweden’s unique advantages: a long heating season, no reliance on gas, and strong infrastructure for geothermal systems. Palm explained that geothermal heat pumps are particularly efficient in Nordic conditions, using only about a quarter of the electricity compared to direct electric heating. He also stressed the need to phase out synthetic refrigerants in favor of natural alternatives such as hydrocarbons and CO₂. “This is critical for reducing climate impact,” Palm added, pointing to ongoing research in this area.
Sweden’s potential is significant. Experts estimate that up to two million homes could be optimized for heat pump installations, with half ideally suited for geothermal solutions. This positions Swedish manufacturers to play a leading role in Europe’s energy transition, not only domestically but also internationally.
Companies like NIBE, Thermia, and CTC are already investing heavily in digital solutions and sustainable refrigerants to meet stricter EU climate targets. With demand for heat pumps surging in Germany, France, and other European markets, Swedish firms see a major opportunity to expand their footprint. Their reputation for reliability and cold-climate performance gives them a strong competitive edge as Europe phases out gas heating. By combining AI-driven controls, greener refrigerants, and proven Nordic expertise, Swedish manufacturers are preparing to export cutting-edge heat pump technology across the continent - helping accelerate the shift to a low-carbon future.
Read the whole article in Swedish Kartläggning: Så vill svenska tillverkarna göra värmepumparna mer effektiva
