Athol Daily News - Columnist Johanna Neumann : Community geothermal networks can help us get off gas

The Framingham Public Schools Welcome Center hosted a tour of the nation s first utility-led community geothermal heating and cooling system, showcasing a clean energy solution supported by various stakeholders. The networked geothermal system, developed by HEET and Eversource, utilizes the Earth s constant underground temperature to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The system connects multiple buildings through fluid-filled pipes, allowing for efficient heating and cooling. The Framingham geothermal network, which connects 37 buildings, is scalable and can be expanded to include more residences and commercial spaces. The pump house for the network will be located underground to test the system s success in densely populated urban environments. Data from the pilot project will be analyzed to develop scalable models and standards for broader adoption. Despite the potential benefits, challenges to scaling up the technology include a shortage of trained geothermal drillers and drilling rigs, as well as issues with existing housing stock. To overcome these obstacles, state leaders must demonstrate support for geothermal energy to encourage investment in training and equipment. The Framingham geothermal network represents an efficient and cost-effective solution to transition neighborhoods away from polluting methane gas and towards renewable energy. This innovative approach aligns with Ralph Nader s sentiment that the country has more solutions than it uses, offering a promising path forward in the pursuit of clean energy.

Source: atholdailynews.com
Published on 2024-09-19

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