In a comprehensive review, researchers examine the benefits of this innovative dual technology for energy-efficient smart cities.
Human civilization is evolving at an unprecedented pace, experiencing daily breakthroughs made possible by previously untapped energy resources. However, this unsustainable progress has raised alarms about its negative environmental impacts, leading to an urgent call to improve energy efficiency and tackle climate change, particularly in urban settings. Rapid urbanization has exacerbated the urban heat island effect, where cities face markedly higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas, escalating energy demands for heating and cooling systems. Consequently, conventional air source heat pumps frequently exhibit diminished efficiency in high-temperature urban settings, increasing electricity usage and operational costs. This urgent challenge highlights the necessity for innovative and sustainable energy solutions.
Integrating ground-source heat pump (GSHP) systems with energy piles offers a compelling solution to this challenge. Energy piles serve a dual purpose: They provide structural support while facilitating geothermal heat exchange, which aligns well with the objectives of smart city development. Furthermore, advancements in geotechnical and energy technologies enable the implementation of these systems across various urban environments.
In a recent study, a team of researchers led by Professor Shinya Inazumi from the College of Engineering at the Shibaura Institute of Technology and Associate Professor Apiniti Jotisankasa from Kasetsart University comprehensively reviewed the integration of GSHP systems with energy piles. Their paper was published in Smart Cities on November 25, 2024.
“In recent years, there has been an increasing global emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources,” Professor Inazumi said. “This study aimed to provide a practical, scalable solution that bridges geotechnical engineering with renewable energy systems, contributing to sustainable urban infrastructure while addressing critical issues of energy management and environmental impact.”
Combining GHSP systems and energy piles is a transformative approach to reducing electricity consumption and operating costs in cities facing growing energy demands. It uses stable ground temperatures to provide efficient heating and cooling, thus outperforming traditional air-source systems. Furthermore, it promotes heat dissipation through optimized groundwater circulation, ensuring the longevity and performance of geothermal systems.
In the review, the researchers emphasize the need for tailored design and adaptive management of the proposed dual-structure infrastructure and advocate site-specific strategies to maximize benefits. These systems can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings while reducing carbon emissions. Smart cities can incorporate energy stacks into infrastructure replanning, aligning with climate action goals and improving resilience to the urban heat island effect. Energy piles can be embedded in roads, bridges, and underground transportation systems to manage thermal loads. This integration could optimize the energy efficiency of transportation facilities and extend their structural life. Furthermore, these systems can complement solar and wind energy by providing stable thermal energy storage, improving the overall efficiency of the current energy system.
“Government-backed subsidies or tax rebates could encourage the widespread adoption of this technology, further reducing barriers such as high initial installation costs and promoting sustainable urban growth,” Professor Inazumi said.
Lastly, the researchers encourage scientists and urban planners to explore the GHSP system and the energy pile-based integrated approach to promote sustainable urban development.
This work bridges the gap between geotechnical engineering and renewable energy, laying the foundation for sustainable urban living. Addressing humanity’s current energy challenges aims to pave the way for resilient, energy-efficient urban development!
