19 Real-World Examples of Geothermal Heat Pumps In Action
Case Studies Detail Geothermal Heat Pump Installations in Climate Zones Across United States With Varying System Types, Sizes, and End Uses
The geothermal system at Epic Systems Corporation is complemented by many other sustainability solutions such as heat reduction through rooftop gardens, wind turbines and acres of solar photovoltaics, and energy-efficient building envelopes. Epic's buildings consume about 25% less energy than comparable buildings in the same climate. Photo from Epic Systems Corporation
Montana State University's district energy system acts as a living laboratory for campus facilities professionals, engineers, and students—a hands-on learning opportunity to study and improve energy-efficient building design, right beneath their feet. Photo from Montana State University
The historic Inn on Boltwood, located in Amherst, Massachusetts, installed a geothermal system for heating, cooling, and hot water in 2009 for their 49 guest rooms and 8,000 square feet of event space. Photo from the Inn on Boltwood
The College of Southern Idaho’s geothermal system may be hidden on the surface, but stepping foot into the heating plants reveals another more colorful story. The vibrantly colored pipes move thousands of gallons of warm water per day for sustainable heating. Photo from College of Southern Idaho
The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) has published a set of geothermal heat pump (GHP) case studies to help people better understand GHP systems, installations, and benefits.
These 19 studies detail GHP installations in climate zones across the United States, with varying system types, sizes, and end uses.
For most areas in the United States, subsurface temperatures are warmer than the air in winter and cooler than the air in summer—regardless of overall climate in a particular region. GHPs leverage these constant temperatures to heat and cool buildings more efficiently than traditional systems and can be used in individual buildings as well as networks for multiple buildings. However, homeowners or business owners interested in installing GHPs do not always have access to information about how the systems work or whether these systems are suitable for their areas.
To help address this gap, GTO asked the geothermal program at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to work with installers and owners of GHPs and create the case studies. The results provide real-life examples of GHP systems in different parts of the country, making it easier for people to understand how such a system might work for them.
While none of the systems featured are funded by GTO, they provide valuable insights of the depth and breadth of uses for GHPs. The Geothermal Heat Pump Case Study Yearbook includes webpages and printable versions of each study.
Learn more about GHPs and GHP-related tax credits, incentives, and technical assistance.