Geothermal energy represents clean energy derived from heat from the earth itself. Because of heat produced by natural processes beneath the earth’s crust, there is a wealth of heat underground, which can be used to produce electricity or provide heat. This energy is renewable and clean, and the operating plants often are compact and use less land than other clean and conventional energy sources.
How it Works
Geothermal energy taps into the heat within the planet to provide heat of electricity. Hot water and steam reservoirs can be used directly or to drive generators and produce energy. Generally, which of these processes is done by a plant depends on whether it is a heat pump or used for generation.
For more information on heat pumps, visit the National Renewable Energy Lab’s website.
A GHP system consists of a ground loop well system that exchanges heat between the ground and groundwater and a circulating fluid. This is then integrated with a heat exchanger and the buildings HVAC distribution system either for air or water temperature control. These systems utilized wells and cooler ambient temperatures of groundwater to improve efficiency of heating and cooling for buildings. For more information visit the National Renewable Energy Lab’s website.
Geothermal Energy in New Jersey
Because of the relatively consistent ground temperature throughout the state, New Jersey is relatively well suited for geothermal energy projects. Currently, there are state incentives for installing geothermal energy systems, and executive orders signed in 2018 have made geothermal power a part of New Jersey’s renewable energy plan for the future. Geothermal energy technology allows for improved energy efficiency, which is a key benefit for the densely populated state.