The untapped and clean geothermal energy our planet provides is enormous. but in 2008, geothermal power supplied less than one percent of the world’s energy. However, that may soon change. By 2050 geothermal power might be able to meet between 10 and 20 percent of the world’s energy requirements, according to a report from Renewable Energy World.

Engineer and geothermal innovator Merline Van Dyke explains that there are many different kinds of geothermal systems — some rely on hot water from beneath the earth’s surface, while others simply use the constant temperature of soil below the surface as a means of heating and cooling.

Van Dyke has worked with Sims Construction, a Denver builder. He has been erecting a three-story, 2,400 square-foot geothermal house — one that utilizes structural concrete insulated panels (SCIP) on the exterior to maintain efficient temperatures. Net result: R-40 insulation value and an electricity bill that will run half of a normal bill, and no need for natural gas.

Warming Your Home with the Earth’s Heat

The house features an Amasond geothermal system. Amasond, an Austrian-based company, provided a geothermal system where pipe was drilled to a non-water level of 118 feet, where the earth temperature was a constant 52 degrees Fahrenheit.

A geothermal heat pump system consists of a heat pump, an air delivery system (ductwork), and a system of pipes buried in the ground near the building. In the winter, the heat pump removes heat from the heat exchanger and pumps it into the indoor air delivery system.

In the summer the process is reversed, and the heat pump moves heat from the indoor air into the heat exchanger. The heat removed from the indoor air during the summer can also be used to provide a free source of hot water.

Geothermal heat pumps use much less energy than conventional heating systems, since they draw heat from the ground. They are also more efficient when cooling your home. Not only does this save energy and money, it reduces air pollution.

Geothermal can provide a more sustainable renewable energy solution; it is a great option, except for the somewhat pricey up-front cost.

Photos: GR Meyers