Assessment of the Installation Potential of a Ground Source Heat Pump System Based on the Groundwater Condition in the Aizu Basin, Japan

Assessment of suitable locations for a ground source heat pump (GSHP) system based on the groundwater condition of study area is important for its sustainable development. Installation potential of a GSHP system was evaluated for the Aizu Basin, Japan. Firstly, suitability assessment was done for a conventional closed-loop system by preparing a distribution map of heat exchange rates for space heating. Heat exchange rates were higher at the northern and southern areas and lower at the central area, indicating that the northern and southern areas are appropriate for the conventional system. A different type of GSHP system using an artesian well was proposed at the central area because groundwater is flowing in an upward direction and using its heat energy can increase heat exchange rates. Demonstration of this system using an artesian well for space heating resulted in higher heat exchange rates compared to the conventional system. A GSHP system using an artesian well is suitable at the central area, and the conventional one is suitable at the northern and southern areas. Assessment of the installation potential of different types of GSHP system in the same Aizu Basin based on its groundwater condition is unique to this study. It can assist in selecting suitable locations for GSHP system installation and to promote its growth in Japan