We’re always looking to find more sustainable and cheaper alternatives to run our lives and homes. With the advent of electric cars and geothermal heating, we now have cleaner, cost-saving options.

From wood-burning fires to oil- and gas-powered heating, natural gas became the preferred fuel of choice as a result of extensive pipeline networks that could reach communities – far and wide.

Oil heat burns hotter, but it requires a tank outside the home in which to store it. Over time, tanks break down and petroleum might leach into the soil and surrounding bodies of water, contaminating municipal and private drinking water. Gas can also have a negative effect on the environment, as it is extracted through a method called fracking, which can affect the integrity of the earth’s surface. In addition, gas can be emitted without any warning to the homeowner, as there is no smell associated with leaks.

While all of these may be referred to as natural resources, they are not easily renewed. Our forests are being depleted at an alarming rate, and gas is a fossil fuel that will not be replenished in our lifetime, or many human lifetimes.

Geothermal energy is a clean, renewable resource that can be harnessed from the earth’s core to be used for heat and electricity. Wells, which range from a few feet to several miles deep, are drilled to access underground reservoirs of very hot water. This is then brought to the surface to generate heating and cooling applications. The heat that flows through the earth’s core is constantly being replenished by naturally decaying radioactive elements.

Geothermal power plants are also more compact than wind and solar power stations. Plus, geothermal resources can be harnessed for power production without having to import fuel.

Savings on every level

The average monthly cost for natural gas in 2023 is $51.42. And, for electricity, each household pays about $130 for basic service. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says property owners can expect up to 70 per cent savings on heating costs, and up to 50 per cent savings on cooling costs, if a geothermal heat pump is installed. Realistically, a 1,500-sq.-ft. home can expect to pay between $30 to $50 per month in heating and cooling costs. Plus, hot water availability is limitless and virtually free.

While the installation of personal geothermal system is still quite high, the long-term benefits are priceless.

Don’t judge a house by its facade

New home construction is also becoming more energy efficient, and builders are introducing any number of materials and methods to assist with cost-saving measures when it comes to utilities and upkeep. It’s important to research the behind-the-scenes infrastructure of your new home to ensure that the most advanced systems are being used to preserve its overall integrity and functionality, while being considerate of the environment. By building a geothermal exchange system into a building site, each new home becomes its own ecosystem. Geothermal energy accesses a completely sustainable resource from our planet’s core, providing a renewable cycle of natural elements to help keep us warm and comfortable throughout the year. subterrarenewables.com

Geothermal benefits

• Significant savings on heating and cooling
• Efficient
• Low maintenance
• Reduced operational costs
• Possible government subsidies
• Environmentally friendly
• No smells
• Adaptable to most climates
• Renewable energy
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions