Ground source heating of soccer fields: systems and market potential in cold climates

In Scandinavia, there are over 3,000 soccer fields with artificial turf, with approximately 300 of them equipped with subsurface hydronic heating systems. These heated fields enable year-round training and games, while also preventing injuries from slippery turf and frozen ground conditions. Most heated soccer fields in Scandinavia rely on district heating as a heat source, with only a few utilizing ground source heat pump systems (GSHP). However, the potential for broader adoption of GSHP systems appears promising due to their significantly lower energy costs. This paper analyzes the use of GSHPs for subsurface heating of soccer fields with artificial turf, examining design, functional characteristics, and energy cost savings. Additionally, it discusses market conditions conducive to broader GSHP system adoption, with a focus on the Scandinavian countries.