CO₂-freie Gewächshausheizung mit saisonalem Erdwärmespeicher: Technisches Konzept und Machbarkeitsstudie

This open-source publication presents a carbon-neutral greenhouse heating system based on seasonal thermal energy storage in the shallow subsurface. The concept eliminates dependency on fossil and biogenic fuels while ensuring optimal growing conditions in protected horticulture. Core innovations include ridge heat extraction with an air-water heat exchanger, seasonal underground storage with controlled moisture management, heat pump-assisted temperature regulation, and AI-driven optimization algorithms.

In addition to winter heating, the system enables direct summer cooling of crops by utilizing the cold air generated during the heat pump process. The modular design allows both integration into new constructions and retrofitting of existing greenhouses, supports optional off-grid operation through photovoltaic and battery storage, and links energy with water management by incorporating collected rainwater.

A feasibility study conducted by the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW) confirmed the technical viability using a reference installation (720 m² plastic greenhouse). The concept is scalable and openly documented under open-source licenses to ensure free availability of climate-friendly heating technologies and to prevent proprietary restrictions through patents.