Geothermal vs Ice Thermal Storage?

Question

Hi there,

I am coming out with a proposal for a new school situated in the tropics. I have 2 proposal one is using geothermal cooling the other is Ice Thermal Storage. Please give some advice on the pro and cons of both proposals.

Many thanx

Answer 1

It really depends on the cost of electricity and equipment in conjunction with the loads for that specific project.

Making ice "always works", however some efficiency is lost because you must cool the ice beyond the temperature necessary for cooling the building. This lost efficiency is okay in localities (like California) where peak generating capacity is strectched thin and the cost of electricty during the day is 5 or 6 times that of nighttime rates.

Geothermal cooling can have a higher efficeincy rating if you have a suitable heat sink. You would have to calculate how many feet of pipe need to be buried and the cost prior to making this choice. I'm guessing the earth remains at 70 or 80 degrees 2-3 feet deep in the tropics.

Not knowing your specific parameter, I would consider a ground water loop used in a heat exchange to condenser stage of the refrigeration cycle. You could use the refrigerant in fan coils or in DX units during the day and could also use it to make ice in the off hours.

good luck!

Answer 2

Thermal Storage works if you have about the same number of heating degree days as cooling degree days. Won't really work well in the tropics. I'd look at solar powered cooling in the tropics.