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Thermal Energy Networks:
The Future of 
Decarbonization

Understanding the revolutionary technology transforming how 
we heat and cool buildings—and the massive opportunity it represents.

What Are Thermal Energy Networks?

Thermal Energy Networks (TENs) are advanced district energy systems that use a network of underground pipes to distribute heating and cooling energy to multiple buildings. Unlike traditional systems that burn fossil fuels in each building, TENs use highly efficient heat pumps and renewable energy sources to provide comfortable temperatures year-round.

Think of it as the electrical grid, but for thermal energy. Just as electricity flows through wires to power homes and businesses, thermal energy flows through pipes to heat and cool them—but with 3-4 times greater efficiency than traditional fossil fuel systems.

Key Advantages:

  • 3-4x more efficient than fossil fuel systems
  • Dramatically reduces carbon emissions
  • Lower operating costs over time
  • Scalable to neighborhoods and districts
  • Compatible with renewable energy sources
  • Reduces strain on electrical grid

The Green Energy Revolution

Electrification is unstoppable, and TENs are at the forefront of this transformation

5,500+ GW

Renewable capacity being added globally by 2030—nearly 3x the 2017-2023 increase

3-4x

More efficient than fossil fuel equivalents—heat pumps require far less energy

73%

Fossil fuel share of global energy by 2030, down from 80%—first decline in decades

THE TRANSITION TO CLEAN ENERGY IS HAPPENING WORLDWIDE AND IT’S UNSTOPPABLE. IT’S NOT A QUESTION OF ‘IF’, IT’S JUST A MATTER OF ‘HOW SOON’ – AND THE SOONER THE BETTER FOR ALL OF US.
— Fatih Birol, IEA Executive Director

The O&G Transition Opportunity

The United States has 3 million miles of natural gas pipeline infrastructure delivering energy to 78.3 million consumers. As electrification accelerates, traditional oil & gas utilities must diversify to stay relevant.

Leading utilities are already making the transition. Companies like Eversource and National Grid have rebranded to reflect their clean energy focus and are installing thermal energy networks across the Northeast.

State Support for TENs

Multiple states have enacted legislation to support thermal energy network development

New York

  • • UTENJA mandated utility 
TEN pilots (2022)
  • • NY HEAT Act proposed (Feb 2025)
  • • Leading state in TEN deployment

Massachusetts

  • • First state for gas utility 
geothermal pilots
  • • First TEN commissioned (June 2024)
  • • New safety guidelines (July 2024)

Colorado

  • • Geothermal grant program (2022)
  • • Thermal Energy Act (2023)
  • • HB24-1370 mandates utility pilots

Marc's TEN Expertise

Recognized authority in thermal energy networks with published works and teaching experience

Published Works

  • Thermal Energy Networks Textbook
  • ATP Publishing, Chicago IL
  • "Sustainable Future with Thermal Energy Networks" (Mechanical-Hub)
  • "Why TENs Are the Future" (Mechanical-Hub)
  • ACHR News contributor on TEN heating solutions
  • ASHRAE: "TENs: The Future of Decarbonization"

Teaching Experience

  • Geothermal Hydronic Fundamentals and One-Pipe 
Ambient Temperature Loops
  • Exploring Thermal Energy Networks and Hybrid Geothermal Systems
  • Geothermal System Basics
  • Construction Management and Leadership

Position Your Company 
as a TEN Leader

The thermal energy network market is exploding. Companies with the right expertise will lead this transformation. Let Marc help you build the capabilities to capture this opportunity.
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