Potential underground environmental risk caused by GSHP systems

Abstract

Due to rising energy demand, the awareness of environmental problems caused by fossil fuels and the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, interest in shallow geothermal use is increasing. The ground source heat pump (GSHP) technologies are favorable owing to its high efficiency and relatively low operating costs. Some researchers have noticed the environmental problems caused by shallow geothermal use; however, most studies focus on open groundwater heat pump systems. The underground environmental risks caused by closed GSHP systems have not been widely concerned. In this study, based on literature review, field investigations and temperature measurements, the potential risks including thermal pollution and groundwater contaminations, and the preliminary solutions to these problems are discussed. The results of this study may help to improve quality and safety controls of GSHP systems and it is also important for sustainable use of shallow geothermal energy.