The Korea Institute of Energy Research (President Kim Jong-nam) is taking off the ‘Energy Independent’ smart farm demonstration project based on a renewable energy convergence system with a complex seasonal thermal storage solar and geothermal heat pump.

The ‘Energy Independent’ smart farm based on the renewable energy convergence system promoted by KIER is a complex seasonal thermal storage solar and geothermal heat pump applied system that can handle 80% of the heating load and 50% of the cooling load for a 3,900㎡ (1,180 pyeong) size of smart farm. Through this demonstration project, it is expected that an integrated energy system will be formed that reduces annual energy costs by more than 70% and management and operation plans will be suggested.

Through this research, an air-conditioning system using renewable energy suitable for greenhouses can be developed to contribute to stable crop production, energy saving, and increase in farm household income. Furthermore, in response to climate change, it will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector that relies on fossil fuels. In addition, it is expected that energy independence in rural areas will be improved by spreading eco-friendly awareness through the demonstration and utilizing various renewable energy facilities.