In some snowy regions of Japan, an innovative system is used to keep roads clear and safe during winter. Sprinklers installed in the pavement spray groundwater, which stays above freezing even in cold weather, to melt snow and ice. This method is especially common in areas like Niigata and Hokkaido, where heavy snowfall can disrupt daily life. The system operates automatically, activating when snow is detected, and helps reduce the need for salt or plowing. By using naturally warm underground water, these communities maintain safer roads while minimizing environmental impact.
Snow-Melting Sprinkler Systems in Japan
In some snowy regions of Japan, an innovative method is used to keep roads clear and safe during winter. Special sprinklers installed in the pavement spray groundwater—which stays above freezing even in cold weather—onto the road surface to melt snow and ice.
This system is especially common in areas like Niigata and Hokkaido, where heavy snowfall is a regular part of winter life. The sprinklers operate automatically, activating when snow is detected, reducing the need for constant plowing or salting.
By using naturally warm underground water, these communities:
- Maintain safer roads for drivers and pedestrians
- Reduce environmental impact (no salt runoff)
- Save resources by using a passive, renewable heat source
The cost of installing and operating a groundwater-based snow-melting system for roads in Japan varies based on factors like system type, installation scale, and local conditions. Here’s an overview:
💰 Estimated Costs
Installation Costs
- Ground-Source Heat Pipe Systems: These systems utilize underground heat exchange to melt snow. Installation costs are approximately $10,000 USD per 2 m² area, which is about the size of a parking space.
- Geothermal Snow Melting Systems: These systems extract geothermal heat from depths of about 100 meters. While the initial construction cost is higher, maintenance costs are significantly lower compared to conventional methods.
Operating Costs
- Groundwater Usage: In areas like Obama City, the annual pumping cost for groundwater used in snow-melting is estimated at 1.4 to 2.8 million JPY for 15 to 29 snow days, respectively. MDPI
- Maintenance and Energy: Additional daily costs for operating the system, including electricity and maintenance, are approximately 450,000 JPY.
✅ Advantages
- Environmental Benefits: These systems reduce the need for salt or plowing, minimizing environmental impact.
- Efficiency: Utilizing naturally warm underground water provides a sustainable and cost-effective solution for snow removal.
