An Analysis of the Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness of Geothermal Energy Piles in Newark, New Jersey

Abstract

A geothermal heat pump (GHP) is a heating and cooling system that uses the Earth as a heat source and sink. GHPs possess the environmental benefits associated with all forms of renewable energy, and further have the benefit of meeting a significant demand—building heating and cooling—by tapping an energy source located on site. Moreover, GHPs are efficient and require minimal maintenance. The main drawback of this technology is its high capital cost, which is largely attributed to borehole drilling and pipe installation. Geothermal energy piles (GEPs) provide a way to decrease that cost. On projects that require foundation piles for structural support, geothermal heat exchange tubing can be installed within the piles without any detrimental effect to the foundation's structural integrity. Geothermal energy piles thus increase the viability of GHPs.

This thesis assesses the feasibility of a geothermal energy pile system on the proposed Newark Liberty International Airport AirTrain stations, which will rest on pile foundations. The analysis addresses both the capacity and cost effectiveness of this system. First, calculations demonstrate that geothermal energy piles can provide sufficient heating and cooling capacity given the energy demand, soil conditions, and proposed pile layout. Second, a cost assessment indicates that this system will save money over time despite a higher installation cost. The installation of GEPs on this project could increase awareness of this beneficial technology, which remains relatively uncommon and unknown.