Energy Saving by the Means of Geothermal Energy

Abstract

Abstrac t—The Earth houses a vast energy supply in the form of geothermal resources. This energy can be used in several applications. In this work the potential of energy saving using geothermal energy in residential sector in Jordan was investigated. The use of geothermal energy for both domestic hot water and in HVAC systems was studied. Two types of geothermal heat exchangers were presented in this work; cast iron heat exchanger for HVAC systems and polyethylene for domestic hot water. Energy consumption can by reduced up to 30% by installing geothermal heat exchanger I. INTRODUCT ION The tem perature of the ground surface is a function of the climate and altitude. The temperature of the ground surface is approximately the same of the ambient temperature. Going inside the earth, the dependence on the ambient climate conditions is 1 decreasing. Earth temperature a few meters below its surface maintains constant through the year. This warm earth provides a free renewable source of energy that can provide energy year around to heat and cool residential houses. Due to the stable temperature of the ground, the heating and cooling systems which are dependent on geothermal energy are more efficient than conventional heating and air-conditioning technologies. Geothermal energy is used also in electricity generation (geothermal power plants), and in industrial fields. It is sustainable, environmentally friendly and need no fuel to produce power. With a rapidly growing world population, and ever-increasing environmental concerns, sustainable development has become an issue of crucial importance for mankind. Geothermal resources have the potential of contributing significantly to sustainable energy use in many parts of the world. Sustainable geothermal utilization involves energy production at a rate which may be maintained for a very long time (100–300 years). The production capacity of geothermal systems is quite variable and different systems respond differently to production, depending on their geological setting and nature. Therefore, comprehensive management is essential for the sustainable use of all geothermal resources. In other words, efficient management is required in order to avoid overexploitation, which mostly occurs due to lack of knowledge and poor understanding as well as in situations when many users utilize the same resource, without common management. Energy-efficient utilization, as well as careful monitoring and