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Other uses Geothermal energy off ers


an array of benefi ts beyond power generation. In some cases, hot water can be piped directly into systems to heat buildings, greenhouses, and fi sh farms. Some cities run hot water under roads and sidewalks during winter to melt snow and ice. T e top 10 feet of earth


remains a relatively constant 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Geothermal heat pumps rely on the energy of the ground to move heat into and out of a building, providing heating and cooling. Also called ground-source heat pumps, these


appliances come in two types: a groundwater (open-loop) system uses well water; an earth-coupled (closed-loop) model moves a solution of water and antifreeze through underground pipes to disperse heat. While geothermal heat


pumps generally operate more effi ciently than their air-source cousins, their up-front cost is higher. A federal tax credit equal to 30 percent of the cost for materials and installation, with no limit on total project expenses, applies to geothermal heat pumps through Dec. 31, 2016. Find a full list of geothermal heat pump requirements, along with a


product list, at www.energystar. gov/taxcredits. OEC awards $1,000 per


ton of installed capacity, up to $5,000, for geothermal installation. Visit www.okcoop. org/services/rebates.aspx for details and requirements before beginning your installation. A geothermal heat pump


may not always be the best option in every situation. Contact OEC at 405-321-2024, and choose option 3 to speak with someone in engineering. We will help you determine whether a geothermal heat pump is the right choice for you and your home.


Naturally occuring steam, like that of the geysers in Yellowstone National Park, can be used to power generators that create electricity. The western United States, home to Yellowstone National Park, has the most potential for geothermal energy. Source: NPS Photo


Sources: U.S. Department of Energy, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Geothermal Energy Association, International Ground Source Heat Pump Association. Magen Howard writes on consumer and cooperative aff airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.-based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profi t electric cooperatives. Scott Gates contributed to this article.


News Magazine 15


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