Geothermal Networks: An Opportunity for States

Ground-source heat pumps have long been used, but there has recently been growing interest in linking a series of heat pumps into neighborhood, utility-scale geothermal networks. Not only can geothermal networks save money for consumers when installed in appropriate locations, but they significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. An increasing number of utilities are exploring this concept, and initial projects are being implemented in Michigan, Texas, and elsewhere. This webinar will show how the technology works; describe a model project in Framingham, Massachusetts that is serving approximately 140 homes and businesses; and explain the value of having utilities and state energy agencies promote geothermal networks and support additional installations.

Zeyneb Magavi, Executive Director of HEET, the thermal energy innovation nonprofit that first proposed a transition from natural gas infrastructure to geothermal networks, will describe the technology, introduce the Framingham project, and identify the potential to scale up networked geothermal energy. Two Senior Program Directors at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, Sarah Cullinan and Peter McPhee, will explain why their organization has been helping Massachusetts communities explore the potential for networked geothermal and how they see it fitting into broader state decarbonization and energy system planning efforts. CESA Executive Director Warren Leon will moderate.