Consider Policy Options for Geothermal Heating and Cooling
The fourth step in developing geothermal heating and cooling policy involves considering different types of policy options that can help expand the deployment of geothermal heating and cooling technologies. Options may be directed to both ground source heat pumps and direct-use applications depending on your area's goals, resources, and needs. Policy options include direct cash incentives; lead-by-example policies; financing; outreach, assistance, and training; regulatory policies; tax incentives; and utility mandates.
| Policy Options | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Cash Incentives | Used to fund a portion of initial equipment and installation costs, which are often high, or to offset resource assessments, feasibility studies, or other pre-development costs. Learn more. |
Grants Rebates |
| Lead-By-Example Policies | Used to increase awareness and test or demonstrate geothermal technologies. Learn more. |
Attain Green-Building Certification Meet Energy-Reduction Goals Procure Energy-Efficient Equipment |
| Tax Incentives | Used to offset purchasing, installation, and ownership costs. Easy to administer and do not require special funding or annual appropriations. Learn more. |
Property Tax Incentives Sales Tax Incentives Tax Credits |
| Financing | Allows projects to become more feasible by spreading costs over time. Learn more. | Loans Loan Guarantees |
| Regulatory Provisions | Used to address deployment barriers such as permitting, leasing, and access requirements. Learn more. | Delineated Resource Ownership Single Agency Permitting Standardized Leasing Practices Standardized Permitting Processes |
| Outreach and Training | Used to increase knowledge and facilitate development of geothermal heating and cooling technologies. Learn more. | Outreach and Education Resource Assessment Technical Assistance Workforce Development |
| Utility Mandates and Standards | Used to enhance local energy diversity and security by promoting economic development and mitigating climate change. Learn more. | Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standards Geothermal Infrastructure Access Renewables Portfolio Standards |
Next, implement the policies you have chosen.
