In a recent government meeting, officials outlined ambitious plans to revolutionize the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industry, emphasizing energy efficiency and job creation. The initiative aims to address current inefficiencies in air conditioning systems, where homeowners often lose significant refrigerant before noticing performance issues. The proposed advancements could lead to air conditioners and heat pumps that use 30% less electricity, akin to the transition from incandescent bulbs to LED lighting.

The initiative is projected to generate approximately 150,000 new jobs in the HVACR sector, particularly benefiting the state of Kansas. By 2050, the industry is expected to grow into a $1 trillion market, highlighting its critical importance to the U.S. economy and the need to maintain competitiveness against foreign manufacturers.

The current ecosystem supporting this initiative includes six core institutions, two national laboratories, and major original equipment manufacturers such as Carrier and Trane. The plan involves a substantial $26 million grant over five years, with the potential for renewal, totaling $52 million. Educational goals include training over 150 graduate students and 300 undergraduates, achieving 100% job placement for graduates, and preparing more than 3,000 HVACR technicians.

Additionally, the initiative aims to engage K-12 students through programs involving over 100 teachers, reaching thousands of elementary school students. The goals also include filing at least 50 patents, commercializing five technologies, and establishing five startup companies, one of which, Icorium Engineering Company, is already operational at the University of Kansas Innovation Park. The overarching aim is to establish a local manufacturer of air conditioning and refrigeration units in Kansas, fostering innovation and economic growth in the region.