UTES - Underground Thermal Energy Storage

The expression Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) identifies shallow geothermal systems where heat from external sources (solar thermal collectors, industrial processes, combined heat and power systems) is stored seasonally into the ground to be used during periods of higher demand. UTES is performed as closed-loop Borehole (BTES) or open-loop Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES). This chapter presents UTES techniques with relevant case studies, the software used for modelling energy needs and underground heat transport, some peculiar aspects affecting the storage efficiency, the typical operating issues, and the possible subsurface impacts of UTES installations.