Organization Pushes for Recognition of GHPs as Renewable Energy Source
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Geothermal Exchange Organization (GEO) is backing efforts in a number of states to change public policies that currently fail to recognize geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) as a renewable source of energy and an efficient way to satisfy the thermal loads of buildings.
“I wish we could have a cookie-cutter approach for each state and every statute, but all are unique, so we have to tailor our approach accordingly,” said Doug Dougherty, president and CEO of GEO. “In some states, our focus is on their renewable energy standards [Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maryland, and New Mexico]. In others, we are concerned with energy-efficiency standards [Illinois, Michigan, New York], and in one state, both [Vermont]. The goal; however, is the same for all: utility support for GHPs.”