Energy usage prediction model comparing outdoor vs. indoor ice rinks

The overall aim of the project was to reduce energy usage in ice rinks. The specific scope of this study is to develop a comparison tool for indoor and outdoor ice rinks based on an energy usage prediction model. The refrigeration system cooling capacity, heat loads on ice surface and their correlation is studied in detail for an outdoor bandy (Bandy is a team winter sport played on ice, in which skaters use sticks to direct a ball into the opposing team's goal) ice rink for season 2010-2011. Climate data input has been validated along with performance analysis of refrigeration system. The cooling capacity and heat loads on ice surface are calculated, compared and analysed considering energy usage affecting parameters and weather parameters like temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and solar load. The deviation between total cooling energy produced and total heat load energy is found 19% and 27% for four warm days and season. The developed model provides a decision tool to choose between alternatives.