Decarbonizing existing buildings using high-temperature ground-source heat pumps

The decarbonization of existing buildings using high temperature heat emitters is a challenge as conventional heat pumps are incompatible with such temperatures. This paper assesses the potential of a novel approach using a high temperature ground-source heat pump (HTHP) coupled with standing column wells.

A case study in cold climate is modeled in TRNSYS using a performance map built from manufacturer’s data. The results confirm the potential of the solution to deliver greenhouse gas emission savings at a lower cost, including in hybrid systems where an auxiliary gas boiler is kept. This innovative solution has the potential to accelerate the decarbonization of existing institutional buildings.