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Geothermal Energy Utilization for Thermal Heating including Geo-inactive Regions

Edward F. Wahl, Ph.D., PE

Course Description

This course focuses on Geothermal fundamentals applicable to the practical & optimum extraction of thermal energy from Earth's Crust for thermal  heating purposes. Geothermal energy in current common terminology refers to pockets of hot water or steam near the Earth's surface that can be accessed at reasonable cost. Source and formation of pockets is described. The Earth's Crust physical and chemical properties, as well as brine chemical & physical properties, are needed  for direct thermal utilization and are introduced. Depending on local conditions, long term benefits of the thermal utilization will accrue to the facility owner, city or district.  Because of the technical complexity, note “complications” in this course presentation, of such projects, there should be many opportunities for design expertise and PE skills in this increasing market. Boise Idaho regional district and the Boise City Mall is used as a case example.

It also provides the theory of & a summary of practical utilization of thermal sources/sinks in the Near-surface Geo-Structure of US Geo-inactive Regions. Successful utilization depends on geographic location and local climatic conditions. Recently there has been federal subsidies to  increase the use of this geo-inactive resource and  expand its use via new technology developments, commonly  referred to as, “GTHP” (Geothermal Heat Pump).  GTHP  application optimization is a function of geographic location, local climatic conditions, distance from a geothermal source, if any in vicinity, and geology of the crustal surface down to about 400 feet.

This course includes a multiple choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.

Learning Objective

At the end of this course, the student will understand the following Basic Elements important in implementing thermal heating systems:

Intended Audience

All engineers, scientists, businesses and individuals interested in the utilization of the renewable, relatively clean, resource called geothermal energy for thermal heating from small structures such as homes, to large district heating systems such as a major portion of a city or even integration of a larger region encompassing several cities. Also interested in long term energy savings by utilizing the geo-inactive region by applying  GTHP “Geothermal Heat Pumps” technology. Note: the use of the term geothermal in this context does not correspond with the conventional/correct meaning of geothermal. Details are given in Course “GTHP”, Ground Source GTHP Pump, Technology”. 

About the Author

Dr. Wahl has multiple degrees from Harvard, MIT & Cornell (PhD). His geothermal teaching experience includes a)  UN Geothermal Energy visiting professor to 1st UN Geothermal Program Auckland (1980) and b)  numerous courses at Cal Poly Pomona and UC San Diego. He taught at c)Cleveland State University(chem & ChemE)  d) U of Western Ontario where he developed cross-disciplinary course in state vector control theory for electrical, mechanical & chemical engineers using latest control theory, state vectors and e) Medicine and Engineering.  Dr. Wahl implemented new medical diagnostic systems and clinical studies at a number of University hospitals. He continues this work at advanced level in US and Europe. He has lectured around the world since 1996 in this field and taught courses to medical professionals (qualified for CE credits). For the JPL Voyager spacecraft, designed, organized and implemented data management system that integrated automation with navigation, propulsion, and telemetry groups.  Received the NASA public service award, highest NASA award & first time to a non-government employee. As program manager of geothermal research, developed and prepared plans, programs, and proposals and supervised the design, contraction, and operation of several geothermal pilot plants.  As owner of Wahl company Dr Wahl completed ahead of schedule and within budget thirty projects in million dollar range in r&d, engineering, fabrication, construction, & operations of pilot facilities related to geothermal utilization plants.. These included projects for various commercial, engineering and federal agencies: included integrated project operations, solved the instability problem in the geothermal two-phase demo power plant in Imperial Valley that had plagued it for years, technical and business management of a proposed 50 megawatt power plant project. For Anderson IBEC performed technical evaluations of companies for acquisition, placed IBEC years ahead of competition in their expeller machinery production hard-facing operation. Managed fuel cell projects, design and operation of an aqueous UF nuclear facility. Conducted studies for various space propulsion systems. Modeled various soil remediation processes, recommended design, operations and process improvements, managed pilot programs for  Hazardous Materials projects. numerous awards and patents for paint industry (Sherwin-Williams and PPG), Constructed and operated a coating plant for producing photosensitive films and other specialty paper and film products. He holds many patents in the above fields. Authored Geothermal Energy Utilization published by Wiley. He is a registered professional engineer in Ohio, California and Oregon.

Course Content

Improved understanding and data becomes available with each passing year. Nevertheless, because of the technical complexity of geothermal projects, care must be given to the quality of the data and references, which should be cast with the solidity of geologic time.

Optional  reference for your interest. “Geothermal Energy Utilization”. Wahl EF, published by Wiley 1979.  Long by our lifespan but essentially 0 delta time in Geologic time.  This book is also available from book resellers for $5 to $25. 

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Quiz

Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.

Take a Quiz

DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.