Even though ground-source

Even though ground-source technology is reliable and cost-effective, continued research is needed to further lower the variable cost and broaden the applicability of ground-source heat pump systems. Research areas include: • computationally efficient simulation methods for ground loop heat exchangers, especially horizontal designs with above ground interaction; • more cost-effective vertical heat exchangers; •lower cost methods for estimating soil thermal properties; • design methodologies that incorporate system simulation, allowing interactions between the building system and the heat rejecter/exchanger system; • optimised fluid pumping system configurations and controls for reduced variable costs.
Several organisations have been active in transferring the technology to the market, which has significantly improved awareness by architects and engineers. However, more is needed to make ground-source heat pump systems a widely accepted technology.