Daikin Europe, Ghent University and the City of Ghent have signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on accelerating the transition to low-carbon heating and cooling through heat pump technology. The partnership aims to advance clean energy innovation by connecting policy, academic research and industry expertise.
The agreement focuses on joint research and initiatives to support a climate-neutral, circular and liveable city. Key themes include energy efficiency, smart climate systems, sustainable urban development and social engagement. Planned pilot projects will explore applications such as small-scale collective heat pumps, low-noise systems, integration into existing buildings, and use in renovation projects with modest insulation upgrades.
The collaboration also builds on previous partnerships between the three parties, including fossil-free district projects and research financing in the Ghent region.
“Ghent is and will remain a pioneer in the energy transition,” said Filip Watteeuw, Alderman for Environment and Climate at the City of Ghent. “Thanks to this collaboration with Ghent University and Daikin, we can align knowledge, technology and policy and put innovative solutions into practice.”
Wim De Schacht, Vice President Service & Solutions and Corporate Affairs at Daikin Europe, stated: “As an international heating and cooling technology company with strong roots in Ghent, we want to actively contribute to a low-carbon city. The city will become a testing ground for innovation, and we will use our expertise in heat pump systems and components to make a difference in Ghent.”
“This triangle – city, university and company – is essential to achieve sustainability ambitions,” added Ghent University Professor Michel De Paepe. “Together we can switch faster and more thoughtfully towards a climate-proof future.”