Networked geothermal systems could transform urban energy use
Geothermal energy, a stable and sustainable resource beneath our feet, is gaining attention as U.S. utilities explore its potential to replace natural gas in heating and cooling buildings.
Matt Simon reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- Geothermal systems use the Earth's consistent underground temperature to heat and cool buildings efficiently, reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with natural gas use.
- Eversource Energy has launched the first U.S. networked geothermal neighborhood in Framingham, Massachusetts, signaling a shift in how utilities approach energy distribution.
- Networked geothermal systems are highly efficient, with a coefficient of performance (Cop) of 6, compared to less than 1 for gas furnaces, offering a promising alternative for energy sustainability.
Key quote:
“If you’re in a situation where you’re going to need to upgrade your pipe anyway, or replace it, you maybe think about: do I replace it instead with a pipe that doesn’t require fuel, and it’s naturally replenishing energy from the ground?”
— Holly Braun, business development and innovation manager at NW Natural
Why this matters:
Transitioning to geothermal energy could significantly reduce carbon emissions from buildings, which account for a third of the U.S.'s greenhouse gas emissions. As utilities face regulatory pressures to phase out natural gas, networked geothermal offers a cleaner and potentially safer alternative.
