Interview with Raimund Zitzenbacher:
Driving Innovation in Heating Technology for HYSTORE

My Role in the HYSTORE Project

At HYSTORE, I’m responsible for programming and optimizing the control systems that power our heat pumps. These control systems are the “brains” behind efficient and reliable heat pump operation, ensuring that energy use is minimised while comfort and performance are maximised.

Thanks to my background as an energy technician, I’m able to take a step back and see how these heat pumps fit into larger energy management challenges, which is crucial when developing solutions for district-scale applications.

A Key Innovation: Compact R290 Heat Pumps for District Hot Water

One of the most exciting aspects of my work is the development of compact heat pumps using R290, also known as propane, as the refrigerant. R290 is a next-generation refrigerant notable for its low global warming potential, making it an environmentally responsible choice. Designing heat pumps around R290 is not without its challenges, especially when striving to create compact systems that are both high-performing and reliable.

In the HYSTORE project, we are reinventing these heat pumps by integrating cutting-edge controls and leveraging our expertise to pack them efficiently into compact units tailored for district hot water production. This innovation promises a sustainable heating solution that can be deployed widely in urban and community heating networks.

Aligning with HYSTORE’s Ambitious Goals

Our focus on R290 heat pumps directly supports HYSTORE’s mission to deliver smart, low-carbon energy solutions. By refining the programming and control logic, and by iterating through exhaustive testing cycles, we ensure that these systems are not only energy-efficient but also robust enough for real-world deployment.

The compact design means fewer materials and easier installation, resulting in cost and carbon savings. Ultimately, our work helps reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions across the district heating sector — a key step toward a more sustainable energy future.

Looking Ahead

Continuous improvement is at the heart of what we do. Each iteration brings better performance and reliability, grounded in a deep understanding of both the technical specifications and practical realities of heat pump technologies. The knowledge we gain from HYSTORE will shape future applications, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in heating technology.

In summary, my role as a PLC programmer and energy technician at OCHSNER Wärmepumpen allows me to contribute crucial expertise to the HYSTORE project. The development of compact R290 heat pumps for district hot water production stands as one of our flagship innovations and plays a key role in reaching the project’s ambitious sustainability goals.