Possibilities of Potential Mapping for BHE Heat Pump Systems

This study is aiming to develope a mapping method that can be used as an aid for designing smaller borehole heat exchanger geothermal heat pump systems. This is yet a not widely researched, undeveloped topic. For the mapping method assessment a study area near Budapest was used. The results showed that besides rock composition mapping and guideline-based heat extraction calculations, the thermal conductivity estimations are the most precise and the most informative way to complete this task. With these maps favorable and less favorable areas can be distinguished within a study area. These maps allow for more precise estimation of necessary borehole lenghts for given projects. Also, after consulting with companies, this information can be used for payback time analyses.