Energy modeling, especially on a large, complex building, is a tedious and time-consuming process...but if you're designing a GCHP system and GHX, it's the most powerful tool in your toolbox. The building and building systems are something you can have some control over. There are a number of things you can do while the building is still in the early design stage by using an energy model, first to... Building insulation values, roof construction, glazing, energy storage, design of the distribution system, ventilation system strategy (HRV, ERV, CO2 sensors) all have a major impact on both the building peak heating and cooling loads as well as the annual energy loads. They all can have a major impact on the size and cost of the GHX. Reducing the number of boreholes or the amount of trenching required can cover the cost of the energy saving features such as glass, lighting, insulation, lighting controls, etc.
More importantly, these are all tools that can balance the amount of energy you are trying to reject to the GHX with the amount of energy you are extracting from the GHX. Balancing the loads does three things:
It makes the system less expensive to build and improves building and system efficiency...improving the owners return on their investment. If you are using an energy model only after the building has been built simply to comply with building code requirements or LEED you are not using one of the most powerful design tools you have available. Comments are closed.
|
Ed Lohrenz
In my blog I'll be expressing my opinions about what I've the learned about ground coupled heat pump (GCHP) systems over the last 30 years. I've been very fortunate to work with many interesting people who are passionate about this technology...engineers, geologists, mechanical contractors, drillers, excavation contractors...in different parts of the world. I've learned a lot from them and will be using this forum to pass on some of the things I've learned and feel are important. Please feel free to use this information if you feel it's worthwhile...hopefully you can avoid some of the same mistakes I've learned from. Archives
September 2021
CategoriesAll Building Design Energy Storage Energy Supply Energy Use Ground Heat Exchangers Incentives Industry Events Interesting Systems Monitoring Your System Product Info Standards System Design Training Workshops Waste Heat Recovery |
GEOptimize Inc. 220 Portage Avenue, unit 1410, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 0A5, Canada +1 204-318-2156