Aquifer Thermal Energy System Comes To Minnesota - CleanTechnica

The article discusses the advantages and implementation of Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systems as an efficient and sustainable solution for heating and cooling. Unlike conventional air source heat pumps, which have limitations in extreme temperatures, ATES systems leverage the relatively stable temperature of groundwater year-round to provide consistent and efficient thermal energy. Research from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Imperial College London, analyzing over 3,000 ATES systems globally, found that these systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 74% compared to traditional methods. Additionally, the return on investment for ATES can be as short as two years, with infrastructure longevity extending beyond 80 years, making it a cost-effective and durable option. A practical example of this technology is underway in St. Paul, Minnesota, where Ever-Green Energy is developing an ATES system for the mixed-use Heights development. This system will extract thermal energy from an aquifer 300 to 500 feet underground to supply heating and cooling for 850 homes and