Combined active solar and geothermal heating: A renewable and environmentally friendly energy source in pig houses

Abstract

Increased energy price and CO2 emissions through burning fossil fuel for heating nursery pig houses in winter are major problems. This study was conducted to evaluate the combined effects of an active solar and geothermal heating system (CSGHP) on electricity use, cost, and CO2 and noxious gas emissions from pig houses during heating in winter at the experimental farm of Sunchon National University, Korea. The electricity use, inside room temperature, humidity, and noxious gas emissions were measured and CO2 emissions and costs were calculated based on the difference in electricity used by control (conventional electric heating system) and CSGHP supported pig houses. A significant increase in internal room temperature was found in the CSGHP system relative to the control house (P < 0.05). Electricity use, CO2 emissions and costs were reduced substantially in the CSGHP system compared with the control house. Moreover, noxious gas emissions were reduced significantly in the CSGHP system relative to the control (P < 0.05). Overall, the results of this study indicated that the CSGHP system has the potential to reduce electricity use, overall cost and CO2 and noxious gas emissions. Therefore, the CSGHP system has the potential for use as an environmentally friendly renewable energy source for animal houses. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1156–1165, 2016