WESPE Project: Making Heat Pump Installation Faster, More Productive, and More Efficient

WESPE aims to make heat pump installation more efficient in order to accelerate the heat transition, i.e. the shift to renewable energy sources, despite a shortage of specialists. The project focuses on both physical and digital processes across the entire value chain. A practice-oriented platform supports the development, testing, and training of efficient installation and retrofit methods in close cooperation with craft professionals. Digital tools and optimized workflows - from initial assessment to final installation - are designed to cut installation time by up to 40%.

All processes are tested, validated, and integrated into vocational training programs. Close cooperation between partners from different fields and the early involvement of craft professionals as lead users ensures practical relevance and broad acceptance of the new methods. Thus, WESPE contributes to reducing and achieving climate goals in the building sector.

The WESPE project is establishing an application-focused platform to simplify, develop, test, and teach new installation and retrofitting processes in close collaboration with the skilled trades.

The Fraunhofer IBP is focusing on setting up an innovation lab where new solutions for improving the efficiency of heat pump installations will be tested and further developed in collaboration with trade professionals. This includes the IBP LAB, a custom-built emulation container, and two realistic basement spaces in one of the “twin houses” - representing a typical single-family home.

These test environments allow new approaches to be evaluated under realistic conditions, scientifically validated, and strategically optimized.