Thermal energy from different sources can be stored underground for heating or cooling. GTK provides geological studies and modelling for the planning of underground thermal energy storage, with the aim of optimising the implementation and use of the storage solutions.
Thermal energy from different sources can be stored underground for heating or cooling purposes using a variety of techniques. In Europe, the most common storage solutions for thermal energy include boreholes drilled into bedrock and aquifer thermal energy storages. Other storage solutions include large-scale bedrock caves and caverns, energy piles, and using old mines for thermal storages.
Storage facilities for energy and especially heating energy are essential if we want to eliminate the use of combustion-based heating energy.
In terms of energy storage, the expert service provided by GTK includes the geological surveys and modelling solutions needed to optimise the implementation plan and use of the thermal storage. Moreover, computational simulations can also be used to study the thermal losses of the storage solution in question. The key is to explore and understand the possibilities and applications of different storage techniques for the intended use. The geological conditions determine the suitability of each underground storage solution, as well as the functioning of the solution throughout its intended lifecycle. GTK also offers solutions for in-use monitoring of underground thermal energy storages.
GTK is constantly researching and developing methods to cost-effectively obtain carbon-free heat from geothermal energy for the modern district heating networks. So far, GTK has conducted studies in Finland on deep and medium-depth heat wells drilled from above the ground as a heat source for large-scale heat pumps.
Underground thermal energy storages are an important part of future energy solutions. When properly designed, they provide an economic solution for year-round heat production.
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