Modeling closed-loop low-enthalpy geothermal systems

Ground Source Heat Pumps exploit the renewable heat of the soil and permit to reduce the primary energy consumption and the CO2 emissions for building heating and cooling. They can be installed in many different sites, but an accurate modelling of the thermal impact on the subsoil is required, in order to avoid an unsustainable operation. In this paper, we present the modelling of a GSHP with a finite-element subsurface flow and heat transport modelling software. The results of a wide set of simulations are compared to understand the relative impact of the most important parameters of BHE and soil on the energetic efficiency of a geothermal heat pump.