In the heart of the industrial revolution, as the world’s appetite for coal grew, so did the need for innovative mining techniques. It’s in this crucible of necessity that the origins of modern ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) were forged, according to a recent study published in ‘Green Energy and Sustainability’ (or ‘Energía Verde y Sostenibilidad’ in English). The research, led by David Banks from the James Watt School of Engineering at the University of Glasgow, sheds light on how early mining technology laid the groundwork for today’s renewable energy solutions.
The story begins in 1862, in the coal-rich region of Swansea, UK. Miners faced a formidable challenge: water seepage during the sinking of mine shafts. The solution? A rudimentary GSHP system, using ammonia as a refrigerant, to freeze the ground and create a dry working environment. This early innovation was further refined in Germany in the early 1880s, evolving into the “Poetsch process,” a closed-loop system that circulated a chilled brine solution through a network of borehole heat exchangers.
“These early systems were crude by today’s standards, but they demonstrated a fundamental principle: the ground’s ability to act as a heat source or sink,” Banks explains. He notes that these early systems were not just about freezing ground; they were also about understanding and harnessing the earth’s thermal properties.
One of the most intriguing applications of this early technology was proposed by Charles Parsons, a Newcastle-based turbine pioneer. Around 1904, Parsons suggested using a GSHP system to transport heat to the surface during the construction of a 12-mile deep “Hellfire Exploration” shaft. The aim? To potentially access geothermal power, a visionary idea that echoes today’s pursuit of deep geothermal energy.
The commercial implications of this historical perspective are significant. As the world shifts towards renewable energy, understanding the origins and evolution of technologies like GSHPs can provide valuable insights. “By learning from the past, we can inform the future,” Banks says. “These early systems were designed for specific industrial needs, but the principles they employed are universal.”
The research highlights the potential for integrating historical mining sites into modern geothermal energy projects. Abandoned mine shafts and tunnels could be repurposed as heat exchangers, providing a sustainable energy source for nearby communities. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging the gap between historical research and modern engineering.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the lessons from the past can guide the development of innovative solutions. The story of ground source heat pumps, from their humble beginnings in the coal mines of the 19th century to their pivotal role in today’s renewable energy landscape, is a testament to human ingenuity and adaptability. And as Banks’ research shows, the ground beneath our feet holds not just historical echoes, but also the promise of a sustainable future.