New Drilling Technologies for Ground Source Heat Pump Installations
Panel Description: Demand is increasing for sustainable heating and cooling solutions, such as geothermal ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems. This has driven the need for more efficient and cost-effective GSHP drilling technologies. To expand the adoption of GSHP technology, drilling methods must be improved to reduce costs, enhance installation efficiency, and minimize environmental impacts, since drilling remains the most significant cost component of GSHP installations. The upfront investment often limits GSHP’s feasibility in certain regions. Development of safer, faster, and less impactful drilling techniques is crucial for the broad deployment of GSHP systems. Coiled Tubing (CT) drilling offers a transformative evolution for GSHP cost reduction and installation efficiency.
Key advantages of CT drilling for GSHP include:
• Faster and more cost-effective drilling due to the elimination of pipe connections
• Quick mobilizations with less labor
• Improved borehole stability - Continuous drilling prevents fluid circulation interruptions
• Enhanced safety - Eliminates manual pipe handling
• Lower environmental impact - Minimal surface disturbance, efficient drilling fluid recycling, and smaller drill pad setups
• Real-time downhole monitoring - Downhole communication capabilities are integrated
• Efficient rock drilling – No need for compressed air, reducing energy consumption and equipment complexity
• Lower operating costs - Significant savings on consumables and more sustainable operations
This panel will discuss technology updates and explore applications to accelerate the adoption of geothermal heating and cooling solutions.
Moderators and panelists to be announced.