GCSC and VenFeld are developing the control hardware and software for the VirtuHot solar-thermal system: a platform engineered to raise thermal efficiency, cut CO2 emissions, and ease pressure on the electrical grid.
Scope · GCSC
Five custom PCBs integrating industrial protocols and mixed signal types, running a closed-loop controller alongside an operator-facing interface.
System synergy
VirtuHot collectors charge a thermal buffer that feeds the source side of a water-to-water heat pump. A warmer source raises the COP, so the same heat output costs less electricity, compounding two benefits: lower CO2 emissions and flatter peak loads that reduce grid-congestion risk.
Full-stack delivery
- System architecture: unified logic binding collectors, storage, and heat pumps into one coordinated plant.
- Custom hardware: IoT-capable PCBs handling PWM, analog, Modbus, and SPI on a single board.
- Embedded software: low-level firmware and protocol stacks tuned for reliability, speed, and robustness.
- Advanced controls: feedback loops and real-time optimisation driving continuous efficiency gains.
Supported by the Kansen voor West 3 programme and co-financed by the European Union.
