Maalämpöenergia

Maalämpöenergia, also known as geothermal energy in a broader context, refers to the thermal energy stored within the Earth's crust. This energy originates from the Earth's formation and the radioactive decay of minerals. In practical applications, it most commonly refers to the utilization of this stored heat for heating and cooling purposes.

The subsurface temperature of the Earth is relatively stable throughout the year, typically ranging from 7 to 21 degrees Celsius at depths of about 10 meters. This consistent temperature is significantly warmer than the air temperature in winter and cooler than the air temperature in summer. Maalämpöjärjestelmät, or geothermal systems, exploit this temperature difference.

These systems consist of a ground loop, which is a network of pipes buried underground, and a heat pump. The ground loop circulates a fluid, usually a mixture of water and antifreeze, which absorbs heat from the earth in winter and transfers it to the heat pump. The heat pump then concentrates this heat and transfers it to the building's heating system. In summer, the process is reversed, with the heat pump extracting heat from the building and dissipating it into the cooler earth.

Maalämpöenergia offers an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient alternative to conventional heating and cooling methods. Its primary advantages include reduced energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and consistent performance regardless of outdoor weather conditions. The initial investment for a maalämpöjärjestelmä can be higher than for traditional systems, but the long-term savings in energy costs and environmental benefits often make it a cost-effective solution.