BOILERS, PUMPS & VALVES


THE REVOLUTION OF GROUND


SOURCE HEAT PUMPS (GSHP)


With the issue of climate change evolving from a discussion to an international catastrophe,


renewable energy is needed nowmore than ever. But, two revolutionary geotechnicalmethods


have emerged fromthe drive for sustainability: geothermal drilling and ground source heat pumps (GSHP). John Rodgman,managing


director of the geothermal drilling company, Borehole Solutions, gives his insight into the


importance of geothermal energy and how you can go greener with the help of GSHP


The number of boreholes drilled – or length of trenching dug – is dependent on the size of the property receiving the GSHP


T


he inception of geothermal energy has made the sci-fi concept of providing a constant and


renewable source of clean power a reality. While wind and solar power alternatives must not be forgotten, their reliance on particular weather conditions leaves much to be desired. Exploiting geothermal energy can, however, be done regardless of the current climate.


GSHP will not only heat your home, but also provide you with a plentiful supply of hot water


Considering how long it


has taken for us to do it, many may be surprised to learn that harnessing geothermal energy is relatively easy. It also has numerous applications, including heat production via heat exchange technology or heating pumps. When it comes to practical applications, this results in the potential for geothermal energy to be used in both urban and domestic heating.


GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS (GSHP) GSHP can harness the earth’s geothermal potential at depths of up to 250m. Installed for domestic purposes, these kind of heat pumps supply power to a home, differing from what many perceive to be the typical form of geothermal drilling – the provision of a massive and continuous reservoir of energy for corporate applications. In comparison, GSHP are very simple and function as an excellent way to keep your property warm in the cooler months. The heat energy is harnessed


differently by GSHP, as it stems from both solar and geothermal gain. The heat energy is sourced from the rock itself, whilst the ground is also heated by the sun.


HOW DO GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS (GSHP) WORK? Geothermal borehole drilling contractors, like those at Borehole Solutions, will carry out the


26 ENERGY MANAGEMENT - Autumn 2022


installation process. The ground will be excavated and boreholes will be drilled, before loops of piping are installed. These pipes are circulated with refrigerant or heat-carrying fluid, which will transfer the absorbed heat up to the surface. The number of boreholes drilled – or length


of trenching dug – is dependent on the size of the property receiving the GSHP. The property’s underlying geology also must not be forgotten, as certain rocks and soils may make the transfer of heat more efficient than others.


WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? There are a number of benefits to GSHP, including: • Reliable and consistent, GSHP require minimal maintenance and are also remarkably quiet.


• Oil, gas and electricity are some of the largest financial burdens for any homeowner and GSHP are substantially cheaper to run than all three.


• More sustainable practices are essential wherever possible.


• GSHP will not only heat your home, but also provide you with a plentiful supply of hot water. Ground source heat pumps are an ideal solution


when homeowners are faced with the ever- growing social commitment to sustainable living. They will inevitably grow in popularity, too, as their benefits are more universally recognised. These aren’t just personal benefits for the homeowner, of course, but monumental benefits that will help to create a greener and healthier environment for future generations.


Borehole Solutions www.boreholesolutions.co.uk


www.energymanagementmag.co.uk


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