WELL TO WELL OPEN LOOP GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM

WELL TO WELL OPEN LOOP GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM

OVERVIEW

The ground side of the geothermal system pumps water drawn from the underground Arapahoe aquifer, piping it up through a heat exchanger, and then returning it back to the aquifer. Hydro Resources drilled one of two multi-completion wells and equipped both. Providing design of controls, pumping equipment along with ongoing system support and service.

MAIN CHALLENGE

Design and implementation of a high pressure pneumatic water column control valve used to regulate pressure through the heat exchanger while varying flow through the system to match air-conditioning loads.

HYDRO’S SOLUTION

• Drill 1 well
• Design and implementation of plumbing, valves and regulators.
• Pumps, Motors and VFDs for both wells.
• High-pressure compressor and storage system.
• Geothermal system controller design, construct and program.
• Ongoing service and support.

ADVANTAGE

Since coming online during the summer of 2013, the geothermal heat-pump system has generated substantial savings. During the first year of operation, $95,000 in utility-bill savings was achieved. Savings are estimated to increase by about 3 percent annually, reaching $165,000 by 2029. Payback on the geothermal system is estimated to be 10 years.