Geothermal and heat pumps offer interesting opportunities for Local Energy Communities (LEGs), especially for heating and cooling. They can supplement LEG energy supply and increase energy efficiency.
In this article, you'll learn how geothermal and heat pumps can be integrated into LEGs.
Geothermal for LEGs
Shallow Geothermal
How It Works:
- Heat from near-surface ground layers
- Ground source heat pumps or collectors
- For heating and cooling
Benefits:
- Available year-round
- Constant
- Local resource
- Environmentally friendly
Heat Pumps in LEGs
How It Works
Principle:
- Uses ambient heat (air, ground, water)
- Electrically operated
- Efficient (COP 3-5)
Integration:
- Combine with solar panels
- Use local renewable energy
- Optimal efficiency
Benefits for LEGs
1. Energy Efficiency:
- High efficiency (300-500%)
- Reduced energy consumption
- Cheaper heating costs
2. Integration:
- Uses local renewable energy
- Complements solar/wind
- Year-round supply
Economics
Costs
Heat Pumps:
- Investment: 20,000-40,000 CHF (per building)
- Cheaper communally
- Grants available
Geothermal:
- Investment: 30,000-80,000 CHF (per building)
- Significantly cheaper communally
- Very economical long-term
Economics
Savings:
- Heating costs: 40-60% reduction
- Combined with solar: Optimal efficiency
- ROI: 10-15 years
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a heat pump worth it in an LEG?
Yes, especially:
- With renewable electricity from LEG
- Community facilities
- Good grants
Can geothermal be used for multiple buildings?
Yes:
- Community facilities possible
- Share costs
- Higher efficiency
Next Steps
Check geothermal/heat pumps?
- Analyze needs: Determine heating needs
- Check location: Geothermal possibilities
- Check grants: Use grants
- Contact Upgrid: Advice
Geothermal and heat pumps optimally complement LEGs!
Related Articles:
- Hydropower in Local Energy Communities
- Solar Panels in LEG: Planning, Installation, Integration
- LEG Winter Preparation: Ensuring Energy Supply
- Energy Storage in LEG: Batteries, Hydrogen, Pumped Storage
About Upgrid: Upgrid supports LEGs in integrating geothermal and heat pumps. Visit Upgrid.ch for more information.