Abstract
The present study investigates the sustainable use of a ground coupled heat pump (GCHP). In order to assess the performance of this type of installation, a computer model composed by two parts has been developed. The Borehole Heat Exchanger (BHE) model is developed in COMSOL Multiphysics, based on numerical methods. Part of the results are fed to the heat pump energy model, developed in MATLAB. A real case study has been used to validate the model: the Faculty of Engineering of La Sapienza University in Latina, undertaking a renewal project for an abandoned part of the building. After the renovation, the building will host a research center on the topic of low-enthalpy geothermal systems. The analysis have demonstrated that the modelled GCHP system can supply a significant share of the energy required from the future research center. This amount of energy can be provided keeping almost stable the thermal balance of the surrounding region in the subsoil, operating in a sustainable way. The range of variation of the ground temperature with respect to the average value is within the limit of 5°C, which is the cap set by the international legislation.
Highlights
Our primary challenge in the energy transition is the research of solid alternatives for the global energy system; alternatives that could be sustainable over a long time on our planet
The present study investigates the sustainable use of a ground coupled heat pump (GCHP)
The analysis have demonstrated that the modelled GCHP system can supply a significant share of the energy required from the future research center
Summary
Our primary challenge in the energy transition is the research of solid alternatives for the global energy system; alternatives that could be sustainable over a long time on our planet. The sustainability should be considered as important as the renewability in the evaluation of “green” energy sources. Geothermal energy is one of the main opportunities for this purpose and it consists of the heat contained within the Earth’s crust and mantle. This resource is characterized by an enormous potential both for electricity production and direct use applications. The use of Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) for building heating do not produce CO2 emissions and do not require specific characteristics for the subsoil.
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