Daikin Applied has invested in advanced -air-technologies-leader Poppy to accelerate the transition to smart and adaptive HVAC systems and buildings that help improve energy efficiency and occupant health.
Poppy is a key partner in equipping building owners and engineers with the tools and technology to visualise air performance, reduce energy waste and lower carbon emissions while maintaining superior air quality.
Poppy is at the forefront of clean airflow and energy management technologies, delivering insights that drive operational savings.
The company's patented real-time air-tracing and ventilation optimisation solutions are built into ASHRAE Standard 241 through a new test method recently introduced to the industry, helping commercial building owners reduce energy costs while complying with key standards for safe and sustainable indoor air management.
Daikin Applied Americas chief operating officer, Yu Nishiwaki, said many facility owners and operators know there are opportunities to improve efficiencies and the occupant experience, but aren't sure what will deliver the best return on investment.
“Poppy's trailblazing air-tracer technology helps uncover those opportunities, allowing Daikin to use our specialised expertise to implement the changes needed to realise the savings and other benefits,” he said.
“The partnership will enhance Daikin's portfolio of equipment and services that support customers' decarbonisation goals.
“Poppy's technology enables building owners, facility managers and HVAC professionals to pinpoint inefficiencies, such as over- and under-ventilation, and provide actionable insights that improve energy savings while maintaining optimal IAQ.”
Prior to the investment, Daikin and Poppy conducted field trials to validate real-time tracer technology in a wide range of building types.
The companies tested 70 sites in 10 geographies from diverse sectors such as commercial offices, healthcare, education and hospitality.
The trials demonstrated that 65 per cent of the sites were over-ventilated, presenting significant opportunities for energy savings, while 25 per cent were under-ventilated, highlighting the need for ventilation enhancements.
Further, Poppy's technology was able to quantify the impact of a wide range of HVAC and filtration updates that could be used by customers to meet relevant standards.
Poppy co-founder & co-CEO, Sam Molyneux, said Daikin is known as a pioneer in the buildings industry, always pushing the boundaries of HVAC efficiency and sustainability.
“This shared focus on innovation is why we're so excited that Daikin is bringing Poppy's technology to its broad customer base. Together, we'll scale the reach and impact of our combined capabilities, and help organisations attain optimal air quality, and reduce utility bills and carbon emissions,” Molyneux said.
“Poppy's efficient implementation and rapid results will streamline on-site testing, allowing customers to assess ventilation rates and air quality within minutes.”
With the integration of Poppy's technology into Daikin's existing portfolio of solutions, customers will benefit from advanced tools that can support both occupant health and energy efficiency.
With 75 per cent of Class A buildings over-ventilated, Poppy's solutions can reduce annual energy use by 10 per cent.