Geothermal energy
Where are most geothermal reservoirs located?
How is geothermal energy a renewable resource?
What are some common uses for geothermal energy?
How can you generate electricity from geothermal energy?
Are there any environmental issues associated with geothermal plants?
How can I use geothermal energy in my home or business?
How does a geothermal heat pump work?
What do I need to install a geothermal heat pump?
Does a geothermal heat pump require electricity to work?
What is the advantage of a geothermal heat pump?
Are there any federal or state incentives?
Geothermal energy is essentially heat from the earth. Reservoirs of water deep within the earth are heated by the earth's molten core and create super heated water and steam.
Where are most geothermal reservoirs located?
The majority of geothermal reservoirs are located in many Western continental states, Alaska and Hawaii.
How is geothermal energy a renewable resource?
Geothermal reservoirs are heated by magma from the earth's core. The magma that the earth produces is constant. And the the heat transferred between underground rock and water makes geothermal energy a renewable resource.
What are some common uses for geothermal energy?
A common use is heating buildings, greenhouses, and other industrial processes by capturing the heat directly from the earth. Geothermal energy can be used to cool and heat buildings with ground source heat pumps. Electricity can also be generated by capturing the heat from reservoirs.
How can you generate electricity from geothermal energy?
A common use is to use the steam and hot water from underground reservoirs by piping the 300 to 700 degree water to a geothermal facility. The water then turns to steam when released which spins a turbine.
Are there any environmental issues associated with geothermal plants?
Emissions from geothermal resources are generally low, but do include carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia and hydrogen. A more serious environmental threat would be groundwater contamination, however that is easily prevented.
How can I use geothermal energy in my home or business?
The most common use for geothermal energy for businesses and homes is the use of a geothermal ground source heat pump to heat and cool your home. Generating electricity for your home is generally not practical at this time.
How does a geothermal heat pump work?
Heat pumps work by using a series of pipes, called a loop, to collect the earth's heat and transfer it into a building using a fluid. A heat exchanger and compressor condense the earth's heat from the fluid and release it into a home at a warmer or lower temperature depending on the time of the year.
What do I need to install a geothermal heat pump?
This depends on what type of loop system you want to install, but for most systems a significant amount of soil will need to be excavated in order to install the underground piping system. Nearby ponds can also be utilized. A compressor, heat exchanger and a series of fans to move the air will be needed. A certified installer can better evaluate the ideal system for your home and suggest a particular loop type and system design.
Does a geothermal heat pump require electricity to work?
Yes, geothermal heat pumps need electricity to move the heat from the ground into your home.
What is the advantage of a geothermal heat pump?
A geothermal heat pump will use less electricity than a traditional electric heating system.
Are there any federal or state incentives?
There are many state and federal incentives that apply to geothermal heat pumps. Please visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE).
Does Tri-State have programs in place to assist with the development of a geothermal heating system in my home?
Yes, Tri-State does offer rebates for cental ground source electric heat pump heating systems. It is up to each of Tri-State's 44 member distribution cooperatives if they wish to take advantage of these rebates. You will need to contact your local member cooperative to check and see if these rebates are available in your area.
