Connecticut is looking into networked geothermal systems as a way to cut greenhouse gas emissions, boost public health, and lower energy costs for residents.

State lawmakers are weighing House Bill 6929, which would establish a grant and loan program to support the development of these geothermal networks.

The proposal has plenty of support from environmental advocates, community leaders, and business groups, but some believe it could be even stronger with a few tweaks. One idea is to require utilities to roll out pilot projects, similar to what New York did in 2022. Another sticking point is funding—the bill doesn’t say where the money for the grant and loan program would come from, so some are suggesting state-issued bonds to cover the cost. Supporters argue it’s a smart one-time investment that would pay off in the long run, both for the environment and the economy, with some estimating $20 million as a solid starting point.

Supporters point to the big impact geothermal networks could have on cutting emissions. Right now, over 40% of Connecticut homes rely on heating oil, while another 37% use natural gas. Geothermal heating, on the other hand, doesn’t produce direct emissions—the only ones come from the electricity used to run the heat pumps. Plus, advocates highlight the cost savings for homeowners since geothermal energy is naturally available and uses far less electricity than traditional heating systems.

Massachusetts is already seeing success with geothermal networks. In Framingham, the country’s first utility-scale geothermal system went live in 2024, and some customers could see their heating bills drop by as much as 75% this winter. The system, built and operated by Eversource, now serves 135 homes and businesses, and is an internationally recognized example.

On top of the environmental and financial perks, geothermal networks could also help energy workers shift away from fossil fuels without losing their skills. In Framingham, for example, gas industry workers played a big role in building the system, showing how experience in traditional energy fields can carry over to renewables.

The concept of geothermal networks has gained traction in several states. In addition to New York and Massachusetts, six other states have passed legislation supporting utility construction of these systems, and between 22 and 27 pilot projects have been proposed nationwide.

In Connecticut, environmental groups have been talking with utilities about geothermal energy for years. Eversource has shown interest in a pilot project and has started taking steps to get approval. But advocates say having a clear law supporting geothermal networks would push utilities to move faster and get more involved.

With support growing for HB 6929, Connecticut could soon join the list of states investing in networked geothermal energy as a cleaner, more affordable way to heat and cool homes.