2002, “Advances in ground source heat pump systems – an international overview

In recent years, ground source heat pump system installations have grown continuously on a global basis (estimates range from 10 to 30 % annually). They have broadened in application, have enjoyed the benefits of international collaboration, and are becoming recognized as a cost effective standard for energy conservation. The acceptance by the users of the ground source technology is attributable to the soundness of the technology, the development of the design and installation infrastructure, and the response of heat pump and component manufacturers. Recent research has concentrated on reducing the first costs of ground heat exchangers, determining soil thermal properties, modeling of ground source heat pump systems, development of hybrid systems and further development of design methodologies. Current research continues in these topics. This paper gives an overview of recent research and developments, primarily within the last five years