Publication Type
Journal
Journal Name
Heat Pumping Technologies Magazine
Publication Date
Page Numbers
33 to 38
Volume
37
Issue
3
Abstract
An innovative underground thermal battery (UTB) can provide not only a stable heat sink or heat source for efficient heat pump operation, but also a thermal energy storage to overcome the mismatch between intermittent renewable power supply and fluctuating thermal demands of a building. This article introduces the recent developments of the UTB, including concept design, lab tests, and modeling. Initial results indicate that the UTB has a potential to enable both efficient air-conditioning and active demand side management without sacrificing the desired comfort condition and convenience in the building.