6-Steps for Installing Geothermal Energy for Your Business

1. Determine what the Geothermal energy system will be used for
2. Do an energy audit of your facilities
3. To Install a geothermal heat pump
4. Make sure you have a viable Geothermal resource
5. Contact your local utility
6. Apply for incentives

1. Determine what the Geothermal energy system will be used for
Geothermal energy systems can be used for on-site generation or commercial-scale for a sale to a utility or a developer. Once you decide this, you will have a better idea of the system size and technology application.

2. Do an energy audit of your facilities
If the Geothermal system will be used for on-site generation first to find out how much energy you use and how you can improve the efficiency of your facilities. Renewable energy systems are best-suited for energy efficient buildings, and you will get the most out of your investment. Click here for energy efficiency tips and suggestions.

3. To Install a geothermal heat pump
If you are interested in installing a geothermal heat pump, visit these sites for additional information:

• International Ground-Source Heat Pump Association
• U.S. Department of Energy Goethermal Heat Pumps – Consumer Guide
• Energy Star – Geothermal Heat Pumps

4. Make sure you have a viable Geothermal resource
Explore the economic value and potential benefits of the type of system you are considering. For help with project evaluation, contact:

• Utah State Energy Program
• Robert Blackett, Utah Geological Survey

5. Contact your local utility
Your local utility can provide information on the availability of interconnection (connecting to the grid) and/or rebate programs. If you are planning a large-scale Geothermal development, you will need to go through the necessary interconnection procedures and studies, so be sure to get this process started early, as it can take some time to complete. you will need to submit an application early in the project development process. Contact the local early on in the development process. If you are installing a geothermal heat pump, you will not need to make arrangements with your utility. 

6. Apply for incentives, as appropriate:

• State Incentives
  • Renewable Energy Systems Tax Credit (Corporate)
  • Renewable Energy Sales and Use Tax Exemption
  • The State Energy Program represents the state of Utah for the Western Regional Geothermal Energy Program and provides technical assistance and partnering to entities submitting proposals for federal energy-related geothermal grants.
  • USDA Rural Development Grants and Loans
• Federal Incentives
  • Business Energy Tax Credit
  • Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit
  • USDA Farm Bill Grants
• Utility incentives (please note: the list below may not include all available incentives. Please contact your local utility)
  • Rocky Mountain Power Blue Sky Community Renewable Energy Grants
• Summary of All State and Federal Incentives - Database for State Incentives for Renewable Energy