Solar superconducting underground heat storage method

How do underground thermal energy storage systems work?

Underground thermal energy storage (UTES) systems store energy by pumping heat into an underground space. There are three typical underground locations in which thermal energy is stored: boreholes, aquifers, and caverns or pits. The storage medium typically used for this method of thermal energy storage is water.

Are solar energy storage systems underground?

The experience of USTES applications worldwide in recent years shows that most of the solar energy seasonal storage projects have significant economic, social and environmental benefits. However, the key part of solar energy storage system is underground.

What is underground thermal energy storage (Utes)?

Alessandro Casasso, ... Rajandrea Sethi The expression Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) identifies shallow geothermal systems where heat from external sources (solar thermal collectors, industrial processes, combined heat and power systems) is stored seasonally into the ground to be used during periods of higher demand.

What are the limitations of underground thermal energy storage systems?

However, as reported by Lanahan and Tabares-Velasco (2017), limitations of underground thermal energy storage systems applied with elements such as energy piles include the comparatively large amount of heat loss compared to insulated water tank or gravel tank systems (Schmidt and Mangold, 2006; Rad and Fung, 2016).

Is underground thermal storage a good idea?

Underground Seasonal Thermal Storage when combined with Medium Temperature Renewable Energy (such as Vacuum Tube Solar Collectors) has a promising potentials. Proper design and knowledge of building's energy demand is a key success factor for seasonal thermal storage project.

What is the difference between ground source heat pump and underground thermal energy storage?

In ground source heat pump systems the heat exchange between energy geostructures and the surrounding ground should be maximised. In contrast in underground thermal energy storage systems the heat exchange between energy geostructures and the surrounding ground should be minimised to preserve heat storage.