This research explored the feasibility of advancing large-scale geothermal heating and cooling systems in New Jersey, with a focus on multibuilding campuses and thermal energy network (TEN) applications. The study was conducted in compliance with the requirements of bill S244,which directed the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to develop a study and report with recommendations to increase the prevalence of large-scale geothermal heat pump systems across the state.
The study included an assessment of the benefits of large-scale geothermal systems as well as an analysis of barriers and opportunities for expansion, including market, regulatory, financial, and other influencing factors. Input was incorporated from stakeholders in New Jersey and nationwide, including geothermal designers and developers, utilities, sites operating geothermal systems, the U.S. Department of Energy, and national laboratories.
In addition, the potential for large-scale geothermal and TEN deployment in New Jersey was evaluated using building energy modeling, geospatial analysis, and data-driven methods. The analysis leveraged national and state datasets, including NREL’s ComStock database, New Jersey DEP bedrock geology data, and MOD-IV property data.