Soil-Borehole Thermal Energy Storage Systems for District Heating

Abstract

This paper presents details of a new project involving an investigation into a new soil-borehole thermal energy storage (SBTES) system constructed in partially saturated soils. The system stores heat collected from solar thermal panels in borehole arrays for subsequent use in district heating of housing communities or buildings. This paper will discuss the heat transfer mechanisms involved in this system, which are different than those in water-saturated soils. In addition to details of the research thrusts, the economic, energy market, and policy issues associated with developing such systems are discussed, using information from two installations North America, the Drake Landing Solar Community and the Delta- Montrose Electric Association, for illustrative purposes.