Geo-Exchange technology

In addition to providing a source of low carbon heat the proprietary Geo-exchange concept captures and stores thermal energy from various sources - cooling, ventilation, refrigeration, waste water, or the air. This innovative approach enables us to deliver class leading efficiency from our heat pumps and ensures primary energy consumption is minimised.

Innovative & sustainable solutions to answer our client's most complicated challenges.

Harnessing the Earth's thermal energy

Technology

Geo-exchange is a groundbreaking innovation that extends the capabilities of traditional ground source heat pump systems by incorporating energy and space efficient boreholes with the ability to capture and store waste heat.

This innovative approach transforms the earth into a vast thermal battery, enabling us to optimise efficiency and reduce primary energy consumption across heating and cooling.

Benefits

Geo Exchange technology revolutionises ground source heat pump systems, bringing a wealth of benefits to businesses, institutions, and communities.

Reduced energy consumption

Ultra low-carbon emissions today

Energy storage

Reduced surface space requirements

Economical viability

Environmental compliance

Improved community image

How it works

Geo-exchange exploits the significant amounts of waste heat generated by various building operations, including cooling systems, ventilation systems, refrigeration equipment, wastewater, and even ambient air. These byproducts of energy consumption often go to waste, representing a missed opportunity for energy recovery. Geo-exchange networks harvest this resource to drive efficiency and sustainability.

Unleash the hidden potential

While traditional systems often require a large number of evenly spaced boreholes, Geo Exchange employs a proprietary borehole design which enables us significantly reduce the number of boreholes and surface space required.

This innovative approach not only reduces costs and minimises disruption during construction but also preserves valuable real estate for future development. Making Geo-exchange a more attractive option for urban settings where space is often limited.

Makes ground source possible on almost any site

Our borehole casing design represents a significant technological breakthrough in ground source heat pump technology. Unlike traditional geothermal systems that utilise plastic U-tubes, Geo Exchange's borehole casings provide a robust and durable infrastructure that enables boreholes to be drilled deeper, up to 250 meters in almost any geology, tapping into the Earth's vast thermal reserves and maximising energy exchange..

Proprietary heat transfer technology

Once captured from various sources, waste heat is meticulously stored within a network of boreholes drilled deep into the earth.
Combined with our management systems this allows us to treat the earth like a battery for thermal energy. Storing waste heat for hours, days or inter-seasonally for use as required & managing the extraction of heat from boreholes and provide a source of cooling in the summer.

Harness the Earth as a thermal battery

The ability to store and utilise waste heat through the earth's thermal storage capacity is a key enabler of Geo Exchange's exceptional efficiency. This is combined with proprietary system monitoring and management tools which are used to both ensure availability and optimise system efficiency across heating and cooling seasons. Systems can be integrated with our customers preferred BMS tools and a range of aftercare & performance management contracts.

Achieve breakthrough efficiency

On many larger estates decarbonising heating systems and optimising energy performance is a complex challenge which will depend on factors including building fabric, secondary systems and lifecycles of existing plant. This is often set against ambitious short and long term carbon reduction targets. Geo-exchange can be deployed to work alongside existing systems to displace some gas today and extended organically as funding and system replacements allow.

Enabling a phased approach to removing gas

Who can I contact to discuss my project and its suitability for Geo Exchange?

BMD Renewables has a team of experienced professionals ready to answer your questions and assess your specific needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and explore the possibilities of Geo Exchange for your project!
What are the key benefits of using Geo Exchange compared to traditional heating and cooling systems?

Geo Exchange offers the potential to minimise the primary energy consumption associated with heating and cooling on any site. Doing so ensures cost, carbon and waste are optimised and our customers are insulated against fluctuations in the energy markets. When compared to other low carbon technologies our approach enables higher CoPs (efficiency) which in turn translates to lower energy consumption, carbon and opex costs. When analysed across the lifetime of the system we believe our approach offers the best value for our customers. When compared to traditional ground source we require up to 10x fewer boreholes and 90x less surface space.
Is Geo Exchange suitable for my building type (residential, commercial, etc.)?

Yes! Ge- exchange is versatile and can be adapted to various buildings, including residential and mixed use schemes (we do not install systems for single houses), commercial, institutional, and industrial. Contact BMD Renewables for a specific assessment.
What is the estimated installation cost of a Geo Exchange system?

Costs vary greatly depending on project size and complexity. BMD Renewables offers tailored quotes and cost analysis upon site evaluation.
Are there any financial incentives or grants available for installing Geo Exchange systems?

Absolutely! BMD Renewables has successfully worked with customers across the UK to secure grants for our projects. Our systems score well where grant allocations are competitive and cost per tonne of carbon removed is assessed to rank applications. We pro-actively work with our customers navigate these options and prepare applications.
Does Geo Exchange technology comply with Part L UK legislation for energy efficiency?

Yes! Geo-exchange systems are highly energy-efficient and help compliance with the latest Part L UK building regulations for energy performance.
What is the difference between Geo Exchange and traditional ground source heating systems?

Geo-exchange uses proprietary and patent protected borehole design which means our systems need up to 10x fewer boreholes than traditional U-tubes and 90x less surface space. This means our systems can be deployed where traditional ground source cannot. Our approach also seeks to capture and store waste heat from various sources, storing it in the earth for later use, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.
How deep are the boreholes drilled for Geo Exchange systems?

Boreholes typically range from 175 to 250 meters to access stable Earth temperatures and optimise heat exchange.
Is Geo Exchange technology safe and reliable?

Yes! Geo-exchange is a closed-loop system which uses vegetable based glycol in all of our sub-surface networks. Our plant rooms are constructed to comply with latest building regulations and industry best practice. Although innovative Geo-exchange is deployed on over 30 sites in the UK. We have access to over 100 years work of operational data to prove the reliability of the system.
What is the maintenance required for a Geo Exchange system?

BMD works with our customers during construction to identify an appropriate maintenance plan for their system, BMD Renewables will then work to train in-house teams or deliver a comprehensive maintenance plan as required.
Can I combine Geo Exchange with renewable energy sources like solar PV?

Absolutely! Geo Exchange integrates seamlessly with solar PV and to store excess energy from other renewables (air source, solar thermal), creating a truly sustainable heating and cooling solution.
How long does it take to install a Geo Exchange system?

Installation timeframes vary depending on project size and complexity and may start from a few months for smaller developments to a year for larger projects. BMD Renewables will provide a detailed timeline during the planning and quotation stages.
What disruptions can I expect during installation?

BMD Renewables prioritises minimising disruptions to our customer's sites. Our boreholes are drilled by a rotary drill not percussion so you can expect fairly typical construction noise during drilling operations and network installation. We are experienced in retrofitting Geo-exchange to operational sites and will work closely with you to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Do I need planning permission for a Geo Exchange system?

Unless it can be proven to be permitted development planning permission may be required for any ground source heating system on an existing site. BMD Renewables can advise you on the necessary permits and offers a turnkey service for managing the planning process on your behalf.
What happens if a borehole encounters unexpected ground conditions?

BMD Renewables conducts detailed assessments during the feasibility and design phase to identify and minimise any risk before construction. Every Geo-exchange project which has started drilling has completed successfully.
Who will maintain the Geo Exchange system after installation?

BMD Renewables can work with you to train in house teams and offers comprehensive maintenance plans tailored to your specific needs. Whichever option you choose we will ensure your system operates optimally and efficiently for years to come.
How does Geo Exchange perform in extreme weather conditions?

Each Geo exchange system is designed to function effectively in the local climate, providing consistent heating and cooling year-round. Deployed up to 250m below ground our boreholes are not effected by surface conditions.
Is Geo Exchange suitable for listed buildings or conservation areas?

Yes! BMD Renewables has experience working with sensitive sites and can design discreet and unobtrusive Geo Exchange solutions that comply with heritage regulations.
Does Geo Exchange require a lot of space for the boreholes?

Compared to traditional geothermal systems, BMD Geo Exchange network needs up to 10x fewer boreholes and up to 90% less surface space.
Is Geo Exchange noisy during operation?

The system operates quietly, with minimal noise from pumps and plant contained in plantrooms where noise can be attenuated as required
What are the environmental benefits of using Geo Exchange?

Our goal is to optimise energy performance across heating and cooling. We do this by maximising the energy we can harvest from the earth and recovering waste heat wherever possible ( cooling, refrigeration, ventilation, waste water). Ensuring primary energy usage is minimised in this manner leads to the maximum possible carbon saving.
Can Geo Exchange be integrated with existing heating and cooling systems?

Yes! Geo Exchange can often work alongside existing systems, maximising its potential and offering a smooth transition away from gas.
Does Geo Exchange have any negative environmental impacts?

The environmental impact is minimal. Borehole drilling is carefully planned and executed, and the closed-loop system ensures no harmful substances are released into the environment.
Is Geo Exchange technology constantly evolving?

Yes! BMD Renewables stays at the forefront of advancements, incorporating the latest technologies and design improvements to offer you the most efficient and sustainable solutions.
Where can I learn more about specific case studies and successful Geo Exchange projects?

Visit the BMD Renewables website or contact us directly. We have a wealth of information and project showcases to demonstrate the real-world effectiveness of Geo Exchange.