maalämpöenergian

Maalämpöenergia, also known as geothermal energy in a broader sense but specifically referring to ground source heat pumps in this context, is a renewable energy source that utilizes the stable temperature of the Earth's crust to provide heating and cooling for buildings. The ground temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year, typically between 7 and 12 degrees Celsius in many temperate climates, regardless of the surface air temperature.

A geothermal heating and cooling system, often called a ground source heat pump, consists of a network of pipes buried underground. These pipes, known as a ground loop, circulate a fluid, usually a mixture of water and antifreeze. In winter, the fluid absorbs heat from the ground, and this heat is then transferred to the building through a heat pump. The heat pump uses a small amount of electricity to amplify the heat, making it sufficient to warm the building. In summer, the process is reversed. The heat pump extracts heat from the building and transfers it to the fluid in the ground loop, which then dissipates the heat into the cooler earth.

This system offers significant advantages in terms of energy efficiency and environmental impact. Geothermal systems can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 50% compared to conventional systems, as they rely on the earth's natural temperature rather than burning fossil fuels. They also have a much lower carbon footprint, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The initial installation cost can be higher than traditional systems, but the long-term savings in energy bills and the environmental benefits make it a sustainable and cost-effective solution for many applications.