“This is a very exciting time both for our program and the geothermal industry in the United States,” said Edward J. Wall, U.S. Department of Energy program manager, Office of Geothermal Technologies, energy efficiency and renewable energy. “Together we can accelerate technology development and expand the reach of this transformative industry.”
The DOE grant includes support for Indie Energy’s smart simulation and metering technology that makes it possible to utilize the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act incentives to reduce or eliminate the first cost obstacle to widespread geothermal adoption.
“The new energy economy can be jump-started right now by using renewable, geothermal energy to heat and cool both existing and new buildings,” said Indie Energy chief executive officer Daniel Cheifetz. “This Department of Energy award will help us demonstrate how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act can be used for a ‘Cash for HVAC Clunkers’ program by municipalities and building owners across the country,” Cheifetz added.
US senator Richard J. Durbin of Illinois stated: “Indie Energy is developing a geothermal technology system designed to reap both environmental and economic benefits. This award from the U.S. Department of Energy will help Indie Energy create green jobs, attract private capital to the geothermal heating and cooling market, and deliver savings with clean energy systems that reduce carbon emissions.”
