Daikin Applied has invested in Poppy, an advanced air technologies leader, to accelerate the transition to smart and adaptive HVAC systems and buildings that improve energy efficiency and occupant health while supporting decarbonization.
The investment aligns with Daikin‘s mission to deliver healthy, comfortable and sustainable spaces through innovative heating, cooling and indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions. Poppy is a key partner in equipping building owners and engineers with the tools and technology to visualize 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 optimization solutions comply with 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.
“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,” said Yu Nishiwaki, Chief Operating Officer for Daikin Applied Americas. “Poppy’s trailblazing air-tracer technology helps uncover those opportunities, allowing Daikin to use our specialized expertise to implement the changes needed to realize the savings and other benefits.”
The partnership will enhance Daikin’s equipment and services portfolio, supporting customers’ decarbonization 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.
Before the investment, Daikin and Poppy conducted field trials to validate real-time tracer technology in various 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% of the sites were over-ventilated, presenting significant opportunities for energy savings, while 25% 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 customers could use to meet relevant standards.
“Daikin is known as a pioneer in the buildings industry, always pushing the boundaries of HVAC efficiency and sustainability,” said Sam Molyneux, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Poppy. “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, help organizations attain optimal air quality, and reduce utility bills and carbon emissions.”
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 occupant health and energy efficiency. By leveraging Poppy’s real-time air tracing and Daikin’s HVAC expertise, buildings can achieve a new level of sustainability and operational performance, paving the way for a healthier, low-carbon future.
