Abstract
The cost-effectiveness of space heating solar systems is penalized in most of Europe by the limited number of sunshine hours which are available during the periods for which heating is needed. These limitations can be overcome in part by seasonal storage but the economic constraints are severe. The paper presents results on two underground seasonal storage systems which are being tested and monitored at the Joint Research Centre of Ispra. The first one is an underground 370 m3 concrete vessel filled with water. The second system uses 3000 m3 of earth as the main storage medium. The soil is heated by regularly spaced vertical tubes connected to an array of 180 m2 of solar collectors. Experimental results during charging and discharging periods are presented. A simplified mathematical model and a cost analysis put in evidence the influence of the scale effect and the ranges of values of the main parameters for which these systems may become cost-effective.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
