Energy from the ground up [interseasonal heat transfer]

Abstract

This article describes a new carbon-free heat technology which could be used to heat buildings and roads in the future. Interseasonal heat transfer (IHT) is a process by which heat energy is collected and balanced between periods of demand and excess supply. It uses simple underground energy stores to turn solar energy collected by suitable surfaces, such as asphalt, into useable energy. Surplus heat energy from the sun is collected during the summer and stored in the ground for use in winter. Cooling energy is collected during winter and stored for summertime use. Current developments in this technology are presented.