Daikin Applied has announced an investment in air technology firm Poppy to accelerate the development of adaptive HVAC systems that support energy efficiency, occupant health, and decarbonization efforts. The collaboration aligns with Daikin’s aim to deliver healthy, comfortable, and sustainable indoor environments through innovative HVAC and indoor air quality (IAQ) technologies.
Poppy specializes in real-time air-tracing and ventilation optimization solutions. These technologies are now part of ASHRAE Standard 241 via a newly introduced test method that supports compliance with indoor air management requirements while helping reduce energy consumption.
“Many facility owners and operators know there are opportunities to improve efficiencies and the occupant experience, but aren't sure what will deliver the best return on investment,” said Yu Nishiwaki, Chief Operating Officer for Daikin Applied Americas. “Poppy's trailblazing air-tracer technology helps uncover those opportunities, allowing Daikin to use our specialized expertise to implement the changes needed to realize the savings and other benefits.”
The investment will strengthen Daikin’s portfolio of technologies that enable customers to achieve decarbonization targets. Poppy’s tools help identify issues such as over- or under-ventilation and offer data-driven insights to improve system performance while maintaining air quality.
Before the investment, Daikin and Poppy conducted field trials across 70 buildings in 10 different regions, covering sectors including commercial offices, healthcare, education, and hospitality. The trials showed that 65% of sites were over-ventilated - indicating wasted energy - while 25% were under-ventilated, suggesting the need for air quality improvements. Poppy’s system also demonstrated the ability to measure the effects of HVAC and filtration changes on air quality, aiding compliance with relevant standards.
“Daikin is known as a pioneer in the buildings industry, always pushing the boundaries of HVAC efficiency and sustainability,” said Sam Molyneux, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Poppy. “This shared focus on innovation is why we're so excited that Daikin is bringing Poppy's technology to its broad customer base.”
The integration of Poppy’s air-tracing solutions into Daikin’s service offering is expected to speed up on-site testing, allowing ventilation and air quality assessments in minutes. Combined with Daikin’s HVAC systems, the technology aims to improve operational performance while supporting a healthier, lower-carbon building environment.