Final answer:
A ground source heat pump, also known as a geothermal heat pump, can be used for both heating and cooling even in cold climates. They use the heat from the ground just below the surface as an external thermal bath, making them more efficient in transferring energy. Geothermal heat pumps are most economically superior in regions with mild winter temperatures, cheap electricity, and expensive alternative fuels.
Step-by-step explanation:
A ground source heat pump, also known as a geothermal heat pump, can be used for both heating and cooling even in cold climates. The heat pump uses the moderate temperature of the ground just below the surface as an external thermal bath. Compared to heat pumps that access more extreme outside air temperatures, geothermal heat pumps operate at higher efficiency.
Geothermal heat pumps benefit from a smaller temperature difference, making them more efficient in transferring energy. They are most likely to be economically superior in regions with mild winter temperatures, relatively cheap electricity, and expensive alternative fuels. Additionally, geothermal heat pumps can cool as well as heat a space, making them advantageous in warm summer climates with cool winters.