Numerical simulation of solar assisted ground-source heat pump heating system with latent heat energy storage in severely cold area

Solar assisted ground-source heat pump (SAGSHP) heating system with latent heat energy storage tank (LHEST) is investigated. The mathematical model of the system is developed, and the transient numerical simulation is carried out in terms of this model. The operation characteristic of the heating system is analyzed during the heating period in Harbin (N45.75 degrees, E126.77 degrees). From the results of the simulation, the average coefficient of performance (COP) of the heating system is 3.28 in heating period. In the initial and latter heating period, the COP of the heating system is higher, and the highest value is 5.95, because the system can be operated without heat pump. During the middle heating period the COP of the heating system and the operation stability of the system are improved due to solar energy and soil alternately or together as the heat source of heat pump. LHEST is a very important role in operation of the system. The system can be operated more flexibly, effectively, and stably by the charge and discharge heat of LHEST, and the effect becomes especially obvious in the initial and latter heating period. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.