Ground Source Heating of Soccer Fields: Systems and Market Potential in Cold Climates

Paper in proceeding, 2024

ABSTRACT
In Scandinavia there are more than 3 000 soccer fields with artificial turf. About 300 of these have subsurface hydronic heating systems. The heated turfs
make it possible for training and games throughout most of the year. Furthermore, a pitch that is kept frost-free prevents injuries caused by a slippery turf
and frozen ground conditions. Practically all heated soccer fields in Scandinavia use district heating as a heat source. Only a few fields are using ground
source heat pump systems (GSHP). However, the potential for a more extensive use of GSHP systems seems promising due to the considerably lower
energy cost. In this paper the use of GSHPs for subsurface heating of soccer fields with artificial turf is analyzed in terms of design, functional
characteristics, and energy cost saving. Finally, aspects of market conditions for a broader use of GSHP systems for these applications are given, focused
on the Scandinavian countries.