Geothermal Energy

Johnathan Bizzell
Cenodric Cunningham
http://energy.gov/energysaver/geothermal-heat-pumps

Geothermal Energy basics

Geothermal Energy is an inexhaustible energy source if cycled properly.
Geothermal energy is made through using the temperature of the Earth
to heat water, producing steam, which can also allow the recycling
water if used efficiently and properly. Three types of Geothermal power
plants are used; Dry Steam, Flash Steam, and Binary Steam. Dry Steam
plants are located at the Geysers and use steam that is already
underground to directly be pumped to the generator or turbine. In Flash
Steam plants, hot water is brought up through wells with its own
pressure, bringing up steam and releasing some water back down into
the well. Finally, Binary Steam plants use hot water from underground
to heat an organic fluid which will release vapor into the generator or
turbine.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

According to energy.gov, GHPs (Geothermal Heat Pumps) have been
used since the 1940s and are a lot more efficient in comparison to the
traditional air-source heating units. They are a lot more expensive
initially, but long term costs pale in comparison to air-source cooling
and heating units due to energy savings and minimal repairs.
Geothermal Heat Pumps also have lifetimes of up to 50+ years.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

There are four types of heat pumps which utilize geothermal energy.
The type of heating pump is dependent on the installation sites soil
conditions, land availability, climate, and installation costs. Based on
this information, you will either get a closed-loop or open-loop system
which are the 2 classifications of the 4 types of heat pumps.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Closed-loop systems use a heat exchanger to exchange heat between
antifreeze and refrigerate, allowing for the geothermal system to
provide either hot or cold air year-round. The antifreeze solution
loops in a closed plastic loop and will be exchanged when triggered.
Open-loop systems use well water or surface water which is the
systems exchange water. Once heated, it will return through the
same well, or another discharge location.