What is Thermal Energy?

Renewable energy has expanded beyond solar, hydro, and wind to include thermal energy. This type of energy exists all around us, 24 hours a day, in the ground beneath our feet. Thermal energy is essentially heat, which can be found in the earth, which maintains a constant temperature year-round, acting as a natural battery.

Thermal energy isn't just from the earth; it can also be found in buildings, lakes, rivers, the air, and even wastewater. Unlike intermittent solar and wind, thermal energy provides a constant and reliable source of power.

Currently, over half of homes use fossil fuels for heating. Instead, a thermal energy highway can be built using water pipes to transfer heat. This system can utilize excess heat from buildings and the constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool entire neighborhoods efficiently. For instance, the heat rejected from an ice rink can be used to warm nearby buildings.

Gas utilities possess the expertise and workforce to transition entire city blocks and communities to thermal energy networks. This approach ensures affordable, clean heating and cooling for communities nationwide, creating a clean thermal energy Super Highway for the future.