Networked ground source heat pumps provide heat to homes in the same manner as individual ground source heat pumps, transferring heat to a home via radiators or underfloor heating. However, in this case, multiple homes all make use of the same ground array. Homeowners pay a standing charge for connection to the shared array. The system consists of an indoor hot water cylinder and heat exchanger connected to a shared array that is often dug under the street.

There is not much information on how many homes are currently connected to shared ground arrays, but we consider them to be a good option for flats, denser areas and some housing estates. Shared ground loops need to be installed on a street-by-street basis, and can’t just be chosen by individual households. Not every home on the street needs to opt in, but the more homes that do opt in, the lower the costs. Properties connecting to shared ground arrays can also make use of the BUS as long as the overall system capacity is under 300kW and individual heat pumps are 45kW or less.

The cost of the heat pump itself ranges between £4,450 - £7,365, however, there is little data available on the additional cost of installation. The cost associated with installing the shared ground array is normally paid for via a standing charge on the property. The estimated install time is 2 to 3 days.

The energy bill would be very similar to a single ground source heat pump, but with an additional service charge. The size of the service charge is dependent upon the number of properties connected to the ground array, with large numbers of connections resulting in lower costs.