TRNSYS modelling and energy assessment of a dual source heat pump system

Abstract

Ground source heat pump systems are recognized as one of the most energy efficient renewable systems for heating, cooling and domestic hot water production in buildings. However, the high cost of the Ground Source Heat Exchanger (GSHE) is still a handicap for its widespread use in Europe. In this context, the use of an innovative dual source (air/ground) heat pump developed in the framework of the H2020 Geot ch project could contribute to reduce both the total size of the GSHE and the annual energy consumption of this type of systems. This is possible thanks to the heat pump capability of selecting the most favourable source/sink, with a consequent lower amount of heat exchange needed with the ground. However, the convenience of considering this type of systems is not always straightforward, as it depends on the type of climatological conditions, the thermal demand profile and the ground thermal properties. This assessment is carried out, by means of a complete model developed in TRNSYS, for three different cities in Spain.