This research explores the feasibility of advancing large-scale geothermal heating and cooling systems in New Jersey, focusing on multibuilding campuses and thermal energy networks (TENs) applications. The study is being undertaken in compliance with the requirements of bill S244, which directs BPU to develop a study and report with recommendations to increase the prevalence of large-scale geothermal heat pump systems in the State. The study includes an assessment of the benefits of large-scale geothermal and an analysis of the barriers to and opportunities for expanding large-scale geothermal, including market, regulatory, financial, and other factors. The study incorporates input from stakeholders within New Jersey and elsewhere, including geothermal designers and developers, utilities, sites with geothermal systems, the U.S. Department of Energy, and national labs.

In addition, the large-scale geothermal and TENs potential in New Jersey is being evaluated using building energy modeling, geospatial and data analysis, leveraging various national and state databases such as NREL’s ComStock, NJ DEP’s bedrock geology, and MOD-IV property data.