Geothermal Energy Use in Western Siberia and Prospects for Its Innovative Application in Construction

Abstract

The article gives an overview of the use of low-temperature geothermal energy sources for heat and cold supply of buildings in areas of Western Siberia. The experience of using geothermal heat pumps shows their economic efficiency and environmental friendliness. An innovative application of the low-temperature energy of the shallow subsurface soil layers is the double use of the underground foundation of a building or another structure as energy active elements of the heat-pumping system. The paper analyzes the problems why green technologies are not developing as dynamically as indicated in the Energy Program of Russia and barriers that prevent the wider use of heat pumps and systems in the heat and cold supply of buildings in the Siberian region. These include considerable regulatory and investment barriers, as well as lack of awareness about renewable energy and energy efficiency. Further, market entry remains challenging in Russia that has not fully liberalised its energy market. Furthermore, entrenched interests in conventional energy resources represent a significant barrier to effective legislation and policy implementation. Thus, huge conventional resources of oil, gas and coal in Siberia region, neighboring to Novosibirsk, Omsk and Altay districts are other obstacles to the introduction of renewable green technologies. Some examples on the limitation of barriers to geothermal heat pumps systems application in building construction are given.