19th WORLD CONFERENCE OF THE ASSOCIATED RESEARCH CENTRES FOR THE URBAN UNDERGROUND SPACE, Belgrade, Serbia, November 4-7, 2025. (Paper No: 3.6.216, pp. 507-514)
АУТОР(И) / AUTHOR(S): Antonia Cornaro, Jimi Dellenbag
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DOI: 10.46793/ACUUS2025.3.6.213
САЖЕТАК / ABSTRACT:
This feasibility study investigates the potential of underground heat storage as a key component of sustainable energy infrastructure in Zurich’s urban core. It focuses on leveraging subsurface spaces to support the expansion of district heating networks, with particular emphasis on seasonal thermal energy storage (STES). Central to the study is the proposed shift from a surface substation (Kraftwerk Selnau) to multifunctional underground sites that enable efficient and resilient thermal storage solutions. Key proposals include a centralised cavern concept in the University District and the adaptive reuse of existing structures such as the decommissioned former railway tunnel, Letten Tunnel for seasonal heat storage. The evaluation highlights how underground heat storage can enhance energy system resilience, reduce surface space use, and contribute significantly to Zurich’s climate goals. The findings advocate for further exploration of cavern-based thermal energy storage systems as a future-proof strategy for urban energy supply.
КЉУЧНЕ РЕЧИ / KEYWORDS:
Seasonal Thermal Energy Storage, District heating networks, Heating and cooling, Planning of underground space, City planning
ПРОЈЕКАТ / ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
ЛИТЕРАТУРА / REFERENCES:
- Admiraal, H; Cornaro, A; Future Cities, Resilient Cities, ICE Publishing (2018), https://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/doi/full/10.1680/usu.61453.115
- Brown, L. J., & Dixon, D. (2014). Urban design for an urban century: Shaping more livable, equitable, and resilient cities. John Wiley & Sons.
- Studie – IG Selnau. (2024). IG Selnau. https://www.ig-selnau.ch/studie
- SCAUT – About us. (2019). https://www.scaut-association.com/de/General-information-About-SCAUT