President Lee Jae-myung has reiterated the importance of promoting heat pumps, a clean energy technology, signaling a significant shift in the domestic heating market.
According to industry sources on July 15, the government has declared 2026 as the "Year of Heating Electrification" in its efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, aiming to distribute 3.5 million heat pumps by 2035. During a national fiscal strategy meeting at the Blue House on July 13, President Lee stated, "Rationalizing energy use is a national task, and we need to accelerate our efforts. We should consider expanding support even if it adds to the budget burden."
Heat pumps are systems that recover heat from the outside air or release heat from indoor air to provide heating, cooling, and hot water.
With the potential for expanding the domestic heat pump market, Kyungdong Navien, a leading boiler manufacturer, has launched a heat pump optimized for Korea's ondol (underfloor heating) and hot water-centric living environment, aiming to capture market share.
The standout feature of Kyungdong Navien's air-source boiler is its exceptional energy efficiency, achieving a seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP) of over 4, maximizing operational efficiency compared to traditional gas and oil boilers. This translates to significant energy cost savings for consumers, according to the company.
Installation convenience has also received high marks. The new system can utilize existing plumbing in homes, allowing for an eco-friendly heating experience without extensive renovations.
Notably, it provides stable hot water at a maximum temperature of 75°C, close to the typical 80°C of standard gas boilers, effectively addressing common issues of lukewarm water during showers or baths. The system also features remote temperature control, scheduling, and real-time energy usage reports through the mobile "Navien Smart APP," enhancing its appeal as a smart home appliance.
With this new product launch, Kyungdong Navien is implementing a detailed "three-pronged market expansion strategy" to drive heat pump adoption. First, it plans to establish a standard model based on the results from the "Heating Electrification Center Jeju" by 2028, which will be applicable nationwide.
The company aims to expand its product lineup. Following the launch of the air-source boiler in June, it plans to complete the localization of key technologies and components by 2027, and introduce an air-source water heater, which has already proven its performance in the North American market, to the domestic market within the year, broadening consumer choices.
Additionally, Kyungdong Navien is establishing a professional one-stop service system to enhance consumer trust. Considering the unique characteristics of heat pumps that require new industrial standards and installation protocols, it is introducing the "NRP (Navien Renewables Partner)" system across its nationwide dealerships. This initiative will provide standardized installation manuals, systematic training, and a rigorous installation quality certification program.
Based on its air-source boiler lineup and infrastructure, Kyungdong Navien has set a goal to sell approximately 210,000 units annually in the domestic heat pump market by 2035.
A representative from Kyungdong Navien stated, "As mentioned during the opening ceremony of the 'Heating Electrification Center Jeju' in May, we will expand heat pump sales in line with government policy and strengthen our position in both domestic and international markets."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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