Major Japanese HVAC manufacturers Panasonic and Daikin are increasing their focus on energy-efficient air conditioning solutions for the US housing market.
Despite former President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, several US states continue to implement stricter environmental regulations, creating demand for high-efficiency systems.
At the CES technology trade show in Las Vegas this January, Panasonic Holdings President Yuki Kusumi announced the launch of 'OASYS,' a new whole-house HVAC system tailored to highly airtight homes.
He emphasized that the system offers 'economic, healthy, and more comfortable' climate control.
The US market is dominated by duct-based central HVAC systems, which differ from Japan's widely used room air conditioners.
Japanese companies previously struggled to sell their AC units in the US due to industry customs, where air conditioning choices are typically made by builders rather than homeowners.
However, conventional central HVAC systems face challenges such as noise and inconsistent room temperatures.
Panasonic has developed an advanced HVAC system that integrates high-efficiency air conditioners, ventilators with controlled airflow, and heat recovery systems.
The new system maintains consistent temperature and humidity levels throughout the home, offering quieter operation and reducing energy consumption by over 50% compared to traditional HVAC methods.
To boost awareness, Panasonic is constructing a model home in Houston, Texas, allowing builders to experience the system firsthand.
The company aims to install the system in 200 homes by 2025 and expand to 2,000 homes by 2030.
Daikin is also pushing for higher energy efficiency in US residential HVAC.
Since acquiring major US air conditioning firm Goodman Global in 2012, Daikin has been promoting inverter-based air conditioning systems that regulate voltage and current to minimize power consumption.
According to Daikin executives, inverter technology has a low adoption rate in the US but has significant growth potential.
Chairman Masanori Togawa stated, 'Some US states are increasingly prioritizing environmental issues, and independent state regulations are likely to expand.
We want to contribute by supplying our energy-efficient products and technologies.
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As the US moves toward stricter energy efficiency regulations, how will Japanese HVAC manufacturers navigate the evolving market landscape and compete against domestic giants?.