Geothermal energy offers clean, efficient heating and cooling — but there are different ways to use it. The following information can help you understand the difference between Geothermal Heat Pumps and Geothermal Networks (or Thermal Energy Networks), and how they both deliver year-round comfort by tapping into the constant temperature below the earth’s surface.

Geothermal Heat Pumps (for individual properties)

A geothermal heat pump (also called a ground-source heat pump or GSHP) connects a single home or building to a loop of pipes buried underground.

This system uses the earth’s consistent temperature to heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer.

• Designed for one property
• May reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint
• Installed on the land of the property owner (requiring suitability of the soil for digging, access for machinery, and adequate space from other underground utilities)

Owned and maintained by the property owner

Geothermal Networks (for communities)

A geothermal network, also called a Thermal Energy Network (or TEN), is a larger system that serves multiple homes, businesses, or buildings at once.

It connects several buildings to a shared underground piping system and can deliver heating and cooling more efficiently across an entire neighborhood.

• Shared infrastructure for multiple buildings
• Supports existing communities or new developments
• Helps neighborhoods adopt clean energy on a larger scale

Often developed and maintained by utilities or community organizations