Sustainability aspects of geothermal heat pump operation, with experience from Switzerland

Geothermal heat pumps are the key to the utilization of the ubiquitous shallow geothermal resources. Theoretical and experimental studies, performed in Switzerland over several years, have established a solid scientific base of reliable long-term operation of borehole heat exchanger-coupled heat pump systems. Proper design, taking into account local conditions like ground properties and building needs, ensures the sustainability of production from systems with single and multiple borehole heat exchangers. Long-term experience acquired at operational objects confirms the predictions.