This white paper focuses on the use of geothermal heat pumps (GHP) for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) applications. It explains the basic elements of geothermal energy and the operating principles of GHP. It also examines different types of GHP and discusses the benefits and challenges of using a GHP system for residential and commercial applications versus implementing a traditional HVAC system.

GHPs can significantly reduce the energy consumption of commercial and residential buildings. They also lower the carbon emissions resulting from a building’s energy use by up to 50%.