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The Geothermal Energy Transition

Have you ever heard the term Beneficial electrification (or strategic electrification)? It’s a popular term for replacing fossil fuel use (e.g., propane, heating oil, natural gas) with electricity. Utilizing electricity for the purposes of heating and cooling emits fewer pollutants than onsite combustion of fossil fuels and is better for our environment. Climate change, finite resources and the need to eliminate the concentration of carbon and other toxic emissions in the atmosphere are critical drivers of the transition from fossil fuels to renewable technologies, which is important to everyone.

Geothermal and air source heat pumps will play significant roles in beneficial electrification. Electricity will replace the burning of fossil fuels for heating and substantially reduce pollutants. The efficiencies of these heat pumps will reduce the overall demand for electricity for cooling.  This reduced demand for electricity will help relieve the growing demand on the electrical power grid.

Utility companies have become very interested in promoting these heat pumps because this technology flattens the demand curve, more fully utilizes their generation equipment, assists in meeting emission reduction targets, and increases profit. Geothermal heat pumps reduce the electrical demand during peak periods, preventing brown outs or grid failure, and increase electricity use during off peak times.  In fact, many utility companies are offering rebates and financial incentives to encourage the transition to geothermal and air source heat pumps.

The energy transition is underway. As the world changes from using finite resources that pollute the air to renewable, clean technologies, geothermal heat pumps will play a significant role. Are you ready for the future?