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Building energy consumption accounts for approximately 36% of total energy consumption in the world. Since buildings are capable of on-site electricity generation and exhibiting predictive pattern of heating and cooling, the focus of this study is to investigate the Smart Dual Fuel Switching System (SDFSS), comprising a natural gas furnace and an air-source heat pump (ASHP), working in conjunction with on-site solar photovoltaic system. Base-case scenario using 1.5-ton rated capacity ASHP with 8.5 heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) yielded only 4% cost savings and 15% greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction when compared to natural gas furnace space heating scenario. With an ASHP of 2-ton rated capacity and HSPF of 10 working in conjunction with solar photovoltaic (PV) system of 4.08 kWp, the cost savings of SDFSS increased to 12% and the GHG emissions reduction of 45%. SDFSS integrated with the grid is expected to yield significant benefits. It can help avoid situation of buildings drawing electricity all at once and reduce the overload on the grid. Also, it can redirect electricity generated from the solar PV system of a building for which using natural gas furnace is more economical to a building whose space heating demands can be met with this excess electricity. Higher ASHP performance and capacity, higher carbon pricing, and higher solar PV electricity generation will lead to the design of a more economical and sustainable SDFSS.

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<p>With increasing concern towards global warming and the deadline of the Paris Agreement 2030 coming up, Canada is struggling to meet the desired greenhouse gas emission reductions. As new energy-efficient technology emerges, heating systems in Canada starts to move away from natural gas heating systems to efficient electrical heating systems such as air source heat pump. Though there are many studies related to reducing space heating, there are few studies performed on transitional technologies that are designed to slowly shift from natural gas-dependent society to an electrically powered society. This study analyses a smart switching system for a natural gas and air source heat pump dual system, and a cold climate air source heat pump water heater. These systems can significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to a typical natural gas-fired heater. With these technologies Canada’s residential sector could potentially meet Canada’s Paris Agreement goals.</p> <p><br></p>