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Contributor surely prove of little consequence when taking into account the inconvenience of load shedding and power outages . It ’ s worth noting that an LNG / LPG gas storage facility would be more expensive to establish , since more space is required due to its larger volume .
• As far as capital equipment costs are concerned , in South Africa we have no current supply source on which to make suitable cost comparisons . However , this could be easily ascertained through any one of the local major VRF equipment suppliers . To my mind however , pricing should be reasonably competitive given the close similarity of the technology applied in both cases ( electric driven versus gas driven VRF ).
Before we all get too excited , there are some concerns , not with VRF technology , but with the long-term supply of natural gas in South Africa . This could well be a serious future stumbling block . A Business Tech article on energy recently ( 17 November 2023 ) alluded to a plunge in South Africa ’ s natural gas supply within the next three to four years , claiming that the shortfall could well trigger the country ’ s next economic crisis . Nevertheless , a level of clarity is needed sooner rather than later , as to where additional gas supplies can be sourced , if such a crisis is to be avoided . In the longer term , the supply prospects look more promising , with a
“ As we know , the technology itself ( VRF ) is well understood in South Africa since first introduced way back in the 1980s . With many role players and suppliers of quality equipment serving our local market , VRF is probably the most dominant category of comfort cooling options currently on offer .”
new gas field discovered off the West Coast ( which could well be in operation by 2030 ).
In conclusion , it ’ s good to know that a gas engine VRF derivative is available and is well developed . Whether or not it will suit South Africa ’ s alternate energy requirements going forward , depends on a number of factors , factors that urgently require a decisive and fast-track approach by the powers that be .
On a personal note , I would like to see the development of a dual-drive VRF arrangement ( combined electrical / gas driven compressor ( s ) with an easy auto change-over system ). However , this is probably wishful thinking on my part based on our country ’ s unique power supply situation and particular energy challenges . RACA
“ The compressor can often be described as ‘ the heart ’ of the HVAC system whereby the compressor moves the refrigerant through the system .”
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I February 2024 39