What We’re Seeing in the Field – Geothermal Systems

And how qualified commissioning agents are key to the successful operation of these systems

Geothermal systems harness the earth’s natural ability to transfer heat to provide efficient and sustainable heating and cooling solutions for buildings. Unlike traditional HVAC systems that rely on fossil fuels, geothermal systems utilize the relatively stable temperatures found beneath the earth’s surface. By circulating fluid through a series of pipes buried underground, geothermal systems absorb heat from the earth in the winter to warm the building and dissipate heat back into the ground in the summer to cool it. This renewable energy source can significantly reduce the environmental impact of heating and cooling by minimizing fossil fuel consumption, and lead to substantial cost savings over time due to their efficiency. As awareness of the benefits of geothermal systems continues to grow, they are becoming an increasingly popular choice for sustainable building design and energy management.

However, the successful design and installation of geothermal systems come with unique challenges that necessitate the expertise of experienced commissioning providers. Commissioning agents play a critical role in addressing and mitigating these challenges, guaranteeing that geothermal systems operate at peak efficiency from day one.

One of the prevalent issues a commissioning agent sees is the delegation of detailed design work by engineering firms to vendors or equipment representatives. This often results in the absence of a technically savvy champion within the design team who can ensure comprehensive integration of geothermal systems. Without a clear, well-communicated design package, the construction team may struggle to build and operationalize the system effectively.

When commissioning providers step in, it’s not uncommon to hear phrases like, “We’re not sure how this is supposed to operate.” This uncertainty stems from gaps in the initial design and a lack of detailed operational instructions, leading to reactive troubleshooting that can occur years after installation. This highlights the importance of thorough commissioning from the outset.

Specific challenges in modular geothermal systems include a lack of clarity with the way internal staging controls and operations utilizing geothermal water are designed and implemented. Ensuring these components work seamlessly requires a detailed understanding and a thorough testing process that is developed from clear and concise design documents that include a detailed sequence of operations of both the packaged equipment and the components connected to them. Early involvement of the commissioning agent is crucial, rooted in clear and effective communication of the design intent and project goals. By working closely with owners to define their objectives, commissioning agents ensure these goals are accurately interpreted and integrated into the design documents. This diligence extends through the construction phase, where they confirm that the construction team fully understands and implements the design as intended.

Geothermal systems hold immense potential for sustainable energy, but their success depends on meticulous design, installation, and commissioning. By involving commissioning agents early and throughout the project, owners can ensure that their geothermal systems work flawlessly from the start, providing long-term reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.

REACH OUT TO SES

Have questions about geothermal systems? Reach out to SES to learn more about how our expert commissioning agents can help you harness the full potential of geothermal energy for your project. Our team can offer guidance and support in making your geothermal system a sustainable and efficient solution for your building’s heating and cooling needs.