KARIYA, Japan - Denso Corp. has begun testing industrial heat pump air conditioners using biodiesel fuel at its headquarters in Kariya, Aichi, Japan.

“Denso expects to significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial heat pump air conditioners by using biodiesel fuel,” said Kenji Ohya, senior managing director in charge of Denso Corp.’s Sales Group. “We aim to introduce biodiesel engine heat pump air conditioners for industrial use by 2010.”

In the test, Denso examines the system’s compatibility and durability when using biodiesel fuel - refined from cooking oil used at the company’s cafeterias - to power heat pump air conditioners. The company estimates that a heat pump air conditioner using biodiesel fuel can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 90 percent compared to its conventional kerosene heat pump air conditioner.

According to the company, CO2 emissions generated during the combustion of biodiesel fuel, originating from plants, can be offset by CO2 absorbed by plants through photosynthesis, and as a result the amount of CO2 released in the atmosphere is considered to be close to none.

For more information, visit www.globaldenso.com.

Publication date:07/07/2008