H-12 Development of the design tool of the Ground Source Heat Pump System and its application : Part-7 Evaluation of design and performance prediction for snow melting system using ground thermal energy

Abstract

Utilization of ground thermal energy is proposed as one of the effective solution in energy saving for snow melting on pavement. We developed the computer simulation tool for design and performance prediction, and made compact thermal response tester. Effective thermal conductivity was estimated 1.40W/(m・K) from the result of thermal response test which was performed in Sapporo. As a result of Simulation, Calculated annual primary energy consumption of snow melting system using ground thermal energy was reduced about 34% compared to conventional system using boiler. Underground Thermal Energy Storage is not effective to reduce primary energy consumption compared to the system without UTES.