**Abstract:** This paper provides a comprehensive overview of ground source heat pump (GSHP) technology and its application in China, with a particular focus on the energy-saving performance of a GSHP demonstration project in Beijing. The analysis highlights the significant reduction in energy consumption achieved through this system, demonstrating its potential as an efficient and sustainable heating solution.
**Keywords:** Ground source heat pump; Energy saving; Beijing; Juer Alley; District groundwater heat pump; Heating standard coal per square meter: 15 kg; Compared to traditional coal-fired boiler systems, which consume 25 kg of standard coal per square meter, GSHP systems achieve a 40% energy saving. The payback period for additional investment is approximately six years.
Through comparative studies of several typical projects, it has been observed that the use of GSHP technology for heating alone can lead to energy savings ranging from 30% to 50%. According to engineering estimates, the initial investment for a groundwater-based GSHP system ranges from 300 to 400 yuan per square meter, while a soil-based system costs around 350 to 450 yuan per square meter. Compared to conventional coal-fired boiler systems, the initial investment is 1 to 3 times higher, and 34% to 150% more than combined heat and power systems. However, these comparisons often fail to account for the infrastructure investments typically required by traditional heating methods or the additional cost savings from cooling, fresh air, and hot water provided by GSHP systems.
According to the winter operation analysis report of 11 projects using GSHP technology in the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Statistics Information Center, when used for heating, cooling, hot water, and fresh air, the unit area expenses were 63% lower than the heating prices of coal-fired central heating in some cases, and all projects showed lower costs compared to fuel, gas, or electric boilers. Preliminary expert calculations suggest that the incremental investment in GSHP systems can be recovered within 4 to 10 years.
**Main Challenges in Promoting GSHP Technology**
Currently, several key challenges hinder the widespread adoption of GSHP technology in China. First, there is a lack of public awareness and social support for energy conservation and environmental protection. As a result, many sectors show little enthusiasm for adopting energy-saving technologies. Additionally, the development and application of GSHP technology are still in their early stages, leading to low social recognition. The lack of awareness among decision-makers at the project level also limits the large-scale implementation of this new energy technology.
Second, although the initial investment for GSHP systems appears high, they eliminate the need for infrastructure related to energy transmission and distribution. Moreover, these systems offer multiple benefits such as cooling, fresh air, and hot water, which significantly reduce overall costs. However, this advantage is not widely recognized by building owners.
Third, design issues remain a concern. Many design firms do not fully understand the technology, leading to improper equipment selection or application.
Fourth, there is a strong inertia in the use of traditional energy sources. In cities like Beijing, extensive infrastructure, management systems, and service networks have been built around traditional energy sources. These systems are continuously being upgraded and expanded, creating competition and conflicts with the adoption of new renewable energy technologies.
**Recommendations for Promotion**
First, it is essential to conduct scientific, economic, technical, and environmental assessments to support the growth of GSHP technology.
Second, new renewable energy sources should be given proper recognition in national energy policies.
Third, specific plans should be developed for local energy use, including the types and regional distribution of energy sources, to clearly define the technological routes and integrate new renewable energy into broader planning.
Fourth, economic incentives should be introduced to encourage the use of renewable energy.
Fifth, design and development units should actively promote and implement the use of renewable energy.
Sixth, government-funded projects should prioritize the use of mature renewable energy technologies to replace traditional energy sources.
Lastly, reforms in the traditional energy usage system are necessary to facilitate the transition to more sustainable energy solutions.
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