Underground building in the north is a way to save thermal energy

This paper investigates the viability of constructing underground buildings in terms of thermal energy reduction. The study considers a recreation center with an ice rink for the conditions of Magadan and Yakutsk. Results indicate that underground layout saves up to 23 % of heating costs compared to aboveground construction. A scheme combining two facilities differing in use and indoor temperature (an ice rink above the ground and a recreation center underneath) has a good potential in reducing total heating costs for the building. Using a heat pump instead of a refrigeration system will provide high refrigerant temperatures (60 °C or more) and make it possible to apply a water heating system. Because of the favorable ratio between electricity and heat tariffs, the use of a heat pump to heat the underground space will be cost-effective in Magadan. In Yakutsk, it will be expedient to select an air heating option utilizing warm air released by the refrigeration system of the ice rink.