The Radiant Professionals Alliance (RPA) and International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA) have entered into a memorandum of understanding with the mutual goal of promoting and advancing technological innovations of geothermal systems. The partnership will coordinate RPA, IGSHPA, and its respective members, with technical activities coordination, research, education, advocacy, publications, and leadership for more sustainable building operations and the green economy.

The RPA and IGSHPA will support the geothermal industry by providing opportunities to participate in codes and standards development, guidelines, policies, and position statements developed on technical subjects as they relate to geothermal and radiant/hydronic developments. They will collaborate in the development of research related to the design and construction of radiant systems for geothermal applications and promote research in areas where results will add to the body of knowledge in the conservation of natural resources, increasing energy efficiencies and sustainability, and improving public health and safety.

“This collaboration brings the geothermal industry together for consistency in the approach, installation, and guidance of geothermal systems,” IAPMO CEO Dave Viola said. “IGSHPA and RPA, as representatives of the geothermal and radiant/hydronics industries, will work together to provide useable content that will not only help drive the industries forward but also protect the health and safety of the public.”

“With the expected rapid expansion of the geothermal (ground source) heat pump industry, consistency of design and installation will be crucial to ensure quality installations and sustained growth,” IGSHPA Executive Director Jeff Hammond said. “This collaboration helps leverage the strengths of both organizations to provide the best resources of the radiant/hydronic and geothermal industries to our members.”