The energy efficiency labeling of low temperature chiller and the assessment of the annual operating cost is a comprehensive issue involving technology, policy, economy and operation management.

I. Energy Efficiency Labels and Energy Efficiency Standards

Energy efficiency labeling and standard system

The energy efficiency management of water chillers in China is mainly regulated through national standards (such as GB 19577-2004 "Minimum Energy Efficiency Limits and Energy Efficiency Grades for Water Chillers") and the energy efficiency labeling system. This standard classifies water chillers into five energy efficiency grades, with Grade 1 being the highest. In recent years, energy efficiency standards have been continuously upgraded. For instance, the energy efficiency threshold for standards was raised by 12% in 2023, driving the industry towards a more efficient and energy-saving direction.

2. Calculation and evaluation of energy efficiency indicators

Energy efficiency indicators (such as COP and IPLV) are important parameters for evaluating the performance of water chillers. For instance, IPLV (Combined Partial Load Performance Coefficient) and COP (Coefficient of Performance) are used to measure the energy efficiency performance of chiller units under different loads. However, IPLV overestimates the energy efficiency weight of the unit at partial load. In actual operation, a more accurate energy consumption assessment should be conducted in combination with the load curve.

3. Implementation and supervision of energy efficiency labels

China's energy efficiency labeling system enhances the credibility of energy efficiency data through public test data, third-party certification and other means. For example, the ARI 550/590 standard (American Institute of Refrigeration Standard) provides an international reference for the definition and application of IPLV.

Ii. Annual Operating Cost Assessment

The relationship between energy consumption and operating costs

The annual operating cost of a chiller not only depends on the initial investment, but is also closely related to factors such as energy consumption, electricity price and operating time. For instance, a certain hospital project selected the IPLV 8.5 frequency conversion unit, which saved 460,000 yuan in electricity fees annually compared with the fixed-frequency unit. In addition, although the purchase price of a Class 1 energy efficiency unit is 15-20% higher, its total cost is actually 8-12% lower.

2. The relationship between operating load and energy consumption

The energy consumption of a chiller is closely related to its operating load. For instance, the annual operation curve of the chiller shows that May to October is the peak load period, while the load is relatively low in the remaining months. Group control of multiple units enables individual units to operate in high-load areas, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. In addition, rationally matching the load with the capacity of the unit and avoiding the phenomenon of "a big horse pulling a small cart" can significantly reduce energy consumption.

3. Energy-saving measures and technical approaches

Improving the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is the key to reducing operating costs. Energy efficiency can be effectively enhanced by optimizing refrigerants, equipment design, operating conditions and maintenance management. For instance, measures such as using high-efficiency refrigerants, optimizing the structure of heat exchangers, and conducting regular maintenance can enhance the energy efficiency ratio. In addition, the application of new technologies such as low-ambient temperature air source heat pump (chiller) units also provides new energy-saving paths.

Iii. Policy and Economic Impacts

Policy promotion and standard upgrading

China has promoted the development of the chiller industry towards high efficiency and energy conservation through policy measures such as upgrading energy efficiency standards and establishing an energy efficiency labeling system. For instance, the standard energy efficiency threshold will be raised by 12% in 2023, and the proportion of Grade 1 energy efficiency products will reach 37% in 2024. These policies have not only enhanced the overall energy efficiency of the industry, but also promoted green consumption and industrial upgrading.

2. Economic and environmental benefits

Improving energy efficiency can significantly reduce operating costs. For instance, the calculation of a certain electronic factory shows that the life cycle cost of a level 1 energy efficiency unit is 840,000 yuan lower than that of a level 3 unit. In addition, the improvement in energy efficiency also brings environmental benefits, such as an annual electricity saving equivalent to 6% of the annual power generation of the Three Gorges Power Station.

Iv. Challenges and Future Trends

The continuous development of technology and standards

The energy efficiency technology of water chillers is still constantly advancing and will develop towards higher energy efficiency (such as COP breaking through 8.0) and intelligence in the future. Meanwhile, energy efficiency standards and labeling systems will also be further improved to adapt to new technological developments and market demands.

2. Challenges and Responses

At present, there are still problems such as the complexity of energy efficiency assessment under partial load and the coordination between equipment selection and operation management. In the future, it is necessary to enhance technological research, standard setting and policy guidance to promote the continuous development of the chiller industry towards high efficiency, intelligence and greenness.

Conclusion

The energy efficiency label of low temperature chiller and the assessment of the annual operating cost is a multi-dimensional and multi-factor intertwined issue. Through the comprehensive optimization of energy efficiency standards, technological progress, policy guidance and operation management, the energy efficiency level of water chillers can be effectively enhanced, operating costs can be reduced, and a win-win situation of economic and environmental benefits can be achieved.