Geothermal energy and geothermal heat pumps are both methods to take advantage of renewable energy sources. Geothermal energy relies on the immense amount of heat at the Earth’s core while geothermal heat pumps rely on the constant temperatures of the earth just a few feet below the surface. While these two methods are very different, the benefits are similar. These techniques are a potential strategy to:

• reduce or eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels
• decrease environmental impacts due to the daily operations of our facilities
• minimize utility costs

As stated above, geothermal energy relies on the immense amount of heat deep within the earth. Hot liquid rock called magma exists at the Earth’s core. Heat emitting from the magma warms the surrounding earth and water. The warm water and steam is pumped to the Earth’s surface and converted to electricity by means of steam turbines.

Figure 1. Continental United States map showing geothermal energy opportunities

Geothermal energy is available across the world. Applicability of geothermal energy usually depends on the wells that must be drilled to extract the steam and water. Depth of these wells will vary from region to region therefore in areas where extensively deep wells must be drilled; the return on investment timeline may not justify geothermal energy as a practical energy source.

Figure 2. Geothermal heat pumps extract heat from the ground
during cool seasons

Geothermal energy and geothermal heat pumps are potential methods to achieve the intent of LEED EA Credit 1 and EA Credit 2. Refer to the LEED Guidance section for specific requirements.