Geothermal Heat Utilization System - February 2004

Geothermal Heat Utilization System - February 2004

Geothermal heat utilization systems are energy-efficient technologies that use the stable temperature of the ground for heating and cooling and freeze protection. This system is particularly effective in cold climates and regions with extreme temperature fluctuations. The Borehole Heat Exchanger System (BHES) developed by Misawa Environmental Technology uses geothermal heat to cool and heat buildings and infrastructure by burying heat exchange pipes approximately 100 meters underground.

This system has been installed in more than 40 locations throughout Japan, including public facilities in Sapporo, Hokkaido, especially Sapporo Dome, and commercial facilities in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture. In particular, the city of Sapporo has adopted a road anti-icing system using BHES, which reduces annual snow removal costs by about 30% by preventing roads and sidewalks from freezing in winter, when snow and ice make them slippery. The system has also reduced CO2 emissions by about 25% per year, which has been recognized by the local government as an achievement in reducing environmental impact.

This technology has achieved significant cost savings compared to conventional fossil fuel-based heating and cooling systems. A commercial facility in Aomori Prefecture successfully reduced annual energy consumption by about 15% and saved about 3 million yen in operating costs. In addition, because the system scale and installation location can be adjusted according to local geological conditions, the system is being introduced throughout Japan.

In the future, geothermal heat utilization systems are expected to become even more widespread, and major energy companies such as Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) are also studying the possibility of introducing such systems in urban areas. This technology is attracting attention not only for its ability to reduce energy costs, but also for its significant contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.