A Critical Review on the Use of Shallow Geothermal Energy Systems for Heating and Cooling Purposes

Abdelazim Abbas Ahmed, Mohsen Assadi, Adib Kalantar, Tomasz Sliwa and Aneta Sapińska-Śliwa
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Abdelazim Abbas Ahmed: Department of Energy and Petroleum, Universitet I Stavanger, 4021 Stavanger, Norway
Mohsen Assadi: Department of Energy and Petroleum, Universitet I Stavanger, 4021 Stavanger, Norway
Adib Kalantar: Muovitech International-Group, 507 30 Brämhult, Sweden
Tomasz Sliwa: Laboratory of Geoenergetics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Aneta Sapińska-Śliwa: Laboratory of Geoenergetics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Krakow, Poland

Energies, 2022, vol. 15, issue 12, 1-22

Abstract: The reduction of CO 2 emissions has become a global concern. In this regard, the EU intends to cut CO 2 emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to those of 1990. The utilization of shallow geothermal energy (SGE) in EU countries is considered the most effective measure for decarbonizing heating and cooling. SGE systems utilize heat energy collected from the earth’s crust to provide secure, clean, and ubiquitous energy. This paper provides a literature review on the use of SGE for heating and cooling purposes. The latest advances in materials, new innovative structures, and techno-economic optimization approaches have been discussed in detail. Shallow geothermal energy’s potential is first introduced, and the innovative borehole structures to improve performance and reduce installation cost is outlined. This is followed by an extensive survey of different types of conventional and thermally enhanced collectors and grouts. Attention is mainly given to the techno-economic analysis and optimization approaches. In published case studies, the least economic break-even point against fossil fuel-based heating systems occurs within 2.5 to 17 years, depending on the local geological conditions, installation efficiency, energy prices, and subsidy. Ground source heat pumps’ cost-effectiveness could be improved through market maturity, increased efficiency, cheap electricity, and good subsidy programs.

Keywords: shallow geothermal energy; borehole heat exchanger; collector; grout; geoenergetics; techno-economic analysis; optimization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (9)

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