Gas-fired cooling status and trends

The current US heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) market shows that the predictions of a health expansion in this market are attainable in this decade. The HVAC industry`s positive trade balance is widening; their successful hedge against various economic problems (the lack of financial and personnel resources) and their initiative to overcome the technical obstacles (caused by environmental issues) will have a positive, long-term impact. This along with energy availability and a favorable price structure has created a unique opportunity for the gas industry to regain and surpass previous respectable market shares attained with gas cooling technologies. New first generation gas cooling equipment is now entering the US marketplace with bold market predictions for commercial chillers and roof-top units, as well as for residential equipment. The marketing campaign covers a broad base of technical and supporting elements. It is the continued research, education, and training of engineers, architects, dealers, and utility sales personnel that can break the existing and serious barriers to the successful marketing of these cooling equipment products. Research in lowering equipment costs, personnel training, more units in the field, and more utility support in commercialization and deployment activities will guarantee an expansion of the market for the gas industry.