The effect of global warming on BTES systems

Global warming (GW) is linked to the use of conventional energy, mainly fossil fuels. There is a general understanding that the way to reduce GW is more efficient use of energy and increased use of renewable energy. Heating and cooling of buildings account for more than one third of the world’s primary energy consumption. Using the ground as a heat/cold source means more sustainable heating and cooling. The ongoing GW means that heat is accumulating in air, ground and water. Since BTESs are using the ground as a source of heat and cold, such systems are affected by the increasing ground temperature. Thus, heat is more easily extracted and heating demand is reduced. The warmer ground means that it is more difficult to use the ground as a cold source, while the cooling demand increases. Here, the effect of GW on the performance of BTESs was analyzed for different GWGodkänd; 2009; 20090811 (khamoh