Geothermal energy uses earth’s constant underground temperature to efficiently heat and cool homes and buildings. By tapping into underground heat, geothermal systems provide sustainable and cost-effective comfort year-round.

Geothermal systems use buried pipes (ground loops) to exchange heat with the earth. In the winter, the system absorbs heat from the ground to warm your home, and in the summer, it removes heat from your home and transfers it back underground, keeping you cool. A heat pump in your home is connected to the ground loops and helps support the heat exchange and move the air.

Geothermal energy systems are:

• Comfortable – with geothermal energy, customers experience year-round comfort with heating & cooling in one system.
• Proven – while geothermal systems may be less common, they have been used for many years throughout the globe, providing consistent heating and cooling.
• Clean – geothermal systems provide a fossil-free energy source, reducing emissions and your carbon footprint.
• Efficient – geothermal heat pumps (also called ground source heat pumps) can be up to 3 to 6 times more efficient than conventional oil, propane, or electric resistance heating systems which can translate to cost savings for you.
• Long lasting – compared to traditional heating and cooling systems, geothermal systems require less maintenance and last a long time, with heat pumps rated to last 25 years or more.

A thermal energy network is a shared system that provides heating and cooling to multiple buildings using underground pipes connected to heat pumps in individual properties. This network eliminates the need for fossil fuels and provides a reliable, cost-effective solution for communities.

Instead of each property installing its own ground loop, a thermal energy network connects multiple homes and buildings to a shared underground loop. This reduces installation costs and provides a scalable, community-wide clean energy solution.

Customers who are eligible to connect to a thermal energy network have received or will receive direct communication from National Grid. We are currently piloting thermal energy networks in specific areas within:

• Boston, MA
• Troy, NY
• Syracuse, NY
• Brooklyn, NY

We may have additional thermal energy networks available in the future, and if your neighborhood is included in a thermal energy network project, you may be eligible to connect.

Costs vary by project, but customers often receive financial incentives that make the transition more affordable. If you are or become eligible, we will provide details on available programs.

While each project has unique requirements, common appliances included in our thermal energy network programs are:

• Ground-source heat pump (GSHP), also known as a geothermal heat pump - These are the most efficient type of heat pump and will provide all the heating and cooling in your home.
• Electric Water Heater - If switching from an alternative fuel source, the program may cover or supplement the costs of a new energy-efficient water heater.
• Electric Cooktop or Stove - If switching from an alternative fuel source, the program may cover or supplement the costs of a new, electric cooktop or stove such as a traditional stove or an induction cooktop.

A ground-source heat pump (GSHP) is an ultra-efficient heating and cooling system that uses the earth’s constant temperature to regulate indoor climate. It replaces traditional furnaces and air conditioners, reducing energy use and emissions.

Costs depend on system size, property type, and incentives.

Yes! There are federal tax credits, state incentives, and utility rebates available for installing a geothermal system.

Learn about available incentives in MA

Learn about available incentives in NY

The underground loop can last 50+ years, and the heat pump unit typically lasts 20-25 years, making it one of the longest-lasting HVAC systems available.

Not necessarily. Geothermal loops can be installed horizontally (for larger properties) or vertically (for smaller spaces) to fit different property sizes. A site assessment can determine the best option for your home.