Energy geostructures: A review of analysis approaches, in situ testing and model scale experiments

This position paper was developed by members of the task force on “Energy Geostructures” of the International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE) Technical Committee TC308 on ‘Energy Geotechnics’. The article includes a summary and review of some of the most recent analysis approaches, in situ testing, full scale testing and model scale experiments with a focus on energy piles and other energy geostructures. The geotechnics literature in these topics has increased rapidly in the last five years suggesting a surge in this emerging research area. Here complementary lines of research can be distinguished, one focusing on thermal analysis and another focusing on thermo-geomechanical analysis. Limitations, shortcomings and knowledge gaps are identified and needs for further research and development within the geotechnical community are highlighted.