Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Until recently, geothermal energy has been limited to regions with favorable subsurface conditions. Most installed geothermal systems are open, using two wells for fluid injection and extraction. Closed-loop systems have historically been used in low-depth installations as ground source heat pumps. However, climate changes and energy market volatility have catalyzed the development of deep-borehole heat exchangers (DBHE) - a potentially cost-competitive technology for direct heat applications and electricity generation. The closed-loop systems can be built in any area with a sustainable geothermal gradient, while millions of abandoned wells worldwide offer low-cost repurposing as closed-loop DBHEs, producing revenue without the large cost linked with drilling. This study provides a technical assessment of coaxial and U-shaped DBHE systems, with a primary focus on the effects of pipe insulation. Results indicate that the installation of proper insulation is a vital part of the system, with a particular emphasis on the return line insulation of U-shaped systems.
Authors: Kubačka, J, Karayiannis, TG
Institution: Brunel University of London
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7113258028
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