Mainers question geothermal systems' role in groundwater contamination

[jpak]

http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/news/local/5269627.html

Hundreds of geothermal systems are believed scattered across Maine, heating and cooling homes, businesses and public buildings via wells that plunge more than 300 feet below ground.

Only six of the alternative energy systems are registered with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection as required under federal and state law, according to state officials.

Now the state is trying to assess the risk posed by so many systems and impose some oversight without discouraging investment in the technology at a time when soaring heating-oil costs are prompting more people to look for new ways to heat homes, schools and commercial buildings.

No one knows for sure how many of the systems are in Maine, though state officials estimate roughly 500 exist. But an untold number of them have failed, causing or risking groundwater and well contamination ranging from motor oil and refrigeration chemicals to saltwater and arsenic, the officials said.

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[GreenPartyVoter]

1. Why do these things fail?