Energy consumption analysis and feasibility of heat pumps at UPC Campus Nord
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Abstract
This thesis investigates the feasibility, efficiency, and environmental impact of implementing aerothermal heat pump systems as sustainable alternatives to conventional heating and cooling systems at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), specifically focusing on the Campus Nord. The study responds to rising energy costs, outdated infrastructure, and UPC’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. A comprehensive analysis of energy consumption at Campus Nord was conducted, utilizing data from the SIRENA and Gemweb platforms. Electricity and gas usage patterns were examined at the building level, with DNC4 selected as a representative case due to its high consumption and typical profile. The technical and regulatory landscape was reviewed to contextualize the role of heat pumps within the European and Spanish energy frameworks. Three use cases were developed to evaluate the performance of heat pumps for heating, cooling, and combined operation. For each scenario, energy demand was modeled using climate-based degree-day methods, and system efficiency was quantified through Coefficient of Performance (COP) and Seasonal COP (SCOP) values. Comparative analyses were conducted against existing gas and electric systems, including cost assessments and CO₂ emissions evaluations. Results demonstrate that replacing traditional gas boilers and cooling systems with aerothermal heat pumps can reduce energy consumption by over 38%, cut emissions by up to 72%, and achieve operational cost savings despite higher electricity tariffs. These findings support the deployment of heat pump technology as a viable and strategic measure for achieving UPC’s sustainability objectives, while also contributing to broader climate action goals in the higher education sector.

