Benefits of Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP) Energy & Technology

Image: Department of Energy

What is GHP Geothermal Technology?

Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP) geothermal technology is an innovative and sustainable method for heating and cooling buildings by tapping into the earth's stable underground temperatures.

Unlike conventional heating and cooling systems that rely on external air temperatures, GHP systems leverage the relatively constant temperatures found below the earth's surface using a series of pipes, known as the ground loop, which circulate a fluid that absorbs heat from the ground in the winter and releases heat into the ground in the summer. The heat pump within the building then transfers this heat to or from the interior spaces, providing efficient temperature regulation.

Read on for a more in-depth explanation at this link.

Benefits of GHP Technology

By using the earth as a natural reservoir for temperature control, GHP geothermal technology has significant benefits.

Low Operating Cost

Heat pumps operating under moderate loop temperatures achieve high efficiency and low operating costs. Energy transfer within the building is cost-effective as each space has its own heat pump. This design eliminates the need to circulate large volumes of air through the building or reheat air for comfort in specific areas.

Simplicity

The system's distributed design is straightforward and easy to understand. Each space is served by an independent heat pump, providing localized heating and cooling. The operation of one heat pump does not influence others, simplifying control to just switching the unit on or off based on the area's heating or cooling needs.

Low Maintenance

Heat pumps are packaged units similar in complexity to standard residential air conditioning systems. The components are identical to those used in outdoor settings with broad operating ranges and weather exposure. The distributed nature of the system helps pinpoint issues quickly, linking problems directly to the specific space's equipment.

No Supplemental Heat Required

Heat pumps can fully satisfy space loads, including ventilation requirements. Ventilation air can be pre-heated by separate heat pumps or conditioned with heat recovery equipment to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

Low Cost Integrated Water Heating

Heat pumps dedicated to hot water loads are especially advantageous in scenarios with substantial cooling demands. By utilizing some heat from the ground loop for water heating, the size and cost of the ground heat exchanger can be minimized.

No Required Exposed Outdoor Equipment

With the ground heat exchanger buried and heat pumps located indoors, concerns about vandalism, noise, and visual impact are mitigated. This arrangement allows designers to choose options like standing seam or large sloped roofs without accommodating exterior equipment.

Low Environmental Impact

On-site fossil fuel consumption is unnecessary, as heat pump systems rely on electricity, which can be centrally managed for pollution control. As electricity generation becomes more efficient and renewable power options grow, the environmental benefits of heat pump systems also increase.

Level Seasonal Electric Demand

Winter heat pump use reduces fossil fuel dependence, while summer operation takes advantage of efficient loop temperatures. This helps maintain consistent electric demand throughout the year, leading to lower average electricity costs.

Longer Life Expectancy

Both the American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Electric Power Research Institute have confirmed through independent research that geothermal heat pump systems typically have a service life of 20 years or more. This durability sets the industry standard.