Geothermal Energy Efficiency Explained: The Future of Sustainable Power
Geothermal energy is one of the most underrated tools in Canada’s clean energy toolkit. By tapping into the Earth’s natural heat, these systems deliver efficient heating, cooling, and even electricity, all without using fossil fuels. While deep systems for electricity are limited by geography, shallow systems have enormous potential to transform how we heat and cool our homes. In this article, we’ll explore how geothermal works, why it’s so efficient, and how it fits into our sustainable energy solutions.
What Is Geothermal Energy?
Geothermal energy harnesses underground heat from Earth’s core to provide renewable power. It draws on radioactive decay beneath the surface to generate consistent energy.
We tap into this nearly constant resource by drilling into geothermal reservoirs that are close enough to the surface, primarily near tectonic plate boundaries and volcanic activity.
Types of Geothermal Energy
Different types of geothermal energy can be used for heating and cooling, or for heat and electricity. Let’s examine the differences between shallow and deep sources:
Shallow Geothermal
Shallow geothermal sources use shallow, widely available resources with temperatures between 0°C and 30°C. We use heat pumps to transfer heat from the ground to our homes, or to bring relatively cooler air up in the summer.
Due to its lower temperatures and the need for a heat pump, shallow sources are primarily used for heating and cooling individual homes and buildings.
Deep Geothermal
The deeper you go, the hotter it gets. Still, deep sources are not defined by depth, but rather as operating at temperatures between 30°C and 200°C. This greater heat gradient can be utilized directly without using heat pumps, and at temperatures above 90°C, electricity can be generated. These are much more restricted geographically, where heat reservoirs are close enough to the Earth’s surface for drilling to be financially feasible. The significant investment in drilling means they are primarily used for industrial purposes.
Most homes cannot access deep reservoirs, making solar power the best option for electricity production since it’s suitable for almost every home. The EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Solar Generator (PV400W) offers 4000W output and can run 120V and 240V appliances. You could even take your home off-grid with expandable batteries and solar capacity.
How Do Geothermal Systems Work?
Shallow systems rely on a series of pipes called ground loops, which are buried horizontally or vertically underground and typically contain water or a water mixture.
In winter, the ground loops absorb heat or hot water from underground, and heat pumps transfer it to our buildings to warm them. In the summer, heat is transferred into the Earth, while now cooler temperatures are brought up to cool our buildings. The loops transfer heat (or cool) to the air, which is typically distributed via air ducts.
For deep systems, we drill wells deep into the Earth, accessing hot water to generate steam, which can be used directly for heating via water pipes and air ducts or to generate electricity via steam turbines. Some systems inject water into dry wells, bringing hot water up through a second well.
Both shallow and deep sources have pros and cons to consider. Shallow sources allow for heating and cooling, but not electricity generation. Deep sources can produce heat and electricity, but not cooling, and they’re costly and geographically limited. In Canada, the best deep sources are in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, while shallow sources can be accessed anywhere.
This is why using heat pumps for heating and cooling, as well as solar power for electricity and powering heat pumps, is the best solution for homeowners. You can even use solar when travelling. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 + 45W Solar Panel is compact enough to fit inside a backpack, yet it will recharge your devices and power lights and small appliances.
Why Geothermal Is So Efficient
The temperature is always nearly constant, making energy production predictable and reliable, 24/7.
They require no fuel.
They are completely renewable and sustainable.
They produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions (deep sources may emit some gases).
They have high energy efficiency ratings between 300% and 500% (FYI: gas furnaces are about 98% efficient).
Deep systems enable direct heating without heat pumps, and some can also generate electricity.
Geothermal Power Supports Canada’s Renewable Energy Goals
Geothermal energy supports Canada’s renewable energy goals by reducing emissions and providing reliable heat. So far, Canada has only one commercial plant in operation in Alberta, but future development will increase energy independence.
Since it’s consistent, reliable, low-carbon, and completely sustainable, developing it won’t harm the environment. We’ve already begun expanding this resource, with future commercial operations already underway to enhance our energy independence and reduce our reliance on volatile fossil fuels.
Still, deep systems are costly and geographically limited, so we must rely on other renewable energy sources for electricity, such as products like the EcoFlow NextGen 160W Portable Solar Panel.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Solar Generator (PV400W)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Geothermal Raise the Electric Bill?
Using heat pumps will increase your electricity bill because they require energy to transfer heat. However, that increase in electricity will be more than offset by the savings in your heating and cooling bills.
Is Geothermal Energy Worth It for a House?
Yes, geothermal heating and cooling can save significant money and increase your home’s resale value. The costs and benefits depend on location, home size, and insulation. Regardless, the energy savings will offset the costs, yielding excellent long-term benefits.
Do Geothermal Systems Work In Extreme Cold?
Geothermal systems rely on heat from underneath the ground surface, where the temperature remains relatively constant. Therefore, they’re a highly effective source of heat in cold environments, significantly reducing the need for traditional heating sources.
Final Thoughts
Geothermal energy is an incredibly efficient and reliable source of clean power. While deep systems are limited to specific regions, shallow systems, such as ground-source heat pumps, can be installed almost anywhere, making them a wise choice for reducing heating and cooling costs across Canada. And for those looking to harness renewable electricity? The EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Solar Generator (PV400W) offers an accessible alternative to start your clean energy journey today.