Heat pumps, air conditioning and refrigeration: Overview
Machines that move heat rather than make it
What this tile covers Machines that move heat from cold to hot places, using a compressor. Share of use 4.2% share of final energy use (2024)Share of world total final energy consumption (about 435 EJ, calculated: motor systems 13,462 TWh are 53% of electricity, so about 25,400 TWh or 91 EJ, and electricity is about 21% of final energy) that passes through this device or is used by this sector, latest year available. Electricity-based devices use electricity's 21% share of final energy (IEA WEO 2025). Overlaps between devices and sectors are allowed and noted. The International Institute of Refrigeration puts refrigeration and air conditioning at around 20% of world electricity, excluding heat pumps for heating; at 21% electricity share that is about 4.2% of final energy (calculated). Lower bound for the tile; overlaps motors and buildings. Source: New IIR figures highlight the role of the refrigeration sector, International Institute of Refrigeration.
Key facts
| Chain | Electrical → compressor → refrigerant cycle → heat moved |
Included from the reference tables
- Air- and water-source heat pumps
- Air conditioners
- Refrigerators
- Absorption chillers
Linked to the material world
Cu CopperHFC Fluorochemicals and refrigerantsAlso in Conversion devices
ST Steam turbines and thermal power plantsCCGT Gas turbines and combined cycleICE Internal combustion engines and gensetsGen Generators and alternatorsMot Electric motors and drivesPE Transformers and power electronicsFC Fuel cellsElz ElectrolysersEH Electric heatingLED Lighting and displaysBlr Boilers, furnaces and stovesExplore paths from here
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