FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: January 12, 2010

CONTACT:    Rick Schofield, 603 271-1974

Construction of Geothermal Wells Requires NH License

Concord, NH - The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is reminding drilling contractors of new licensing requirements for construction of geothermal wells or borings. The new law requires drilling contractors to be licensed by the NH Water Well Board, and amends the New Hampshire Safe Drinking Water Act, authorizing DES to adopt rules to regulate the heat exchange fluids used in closed loop geothermal systems and to prohibit the construction of open loop geothermal systems where such installations will contaminate freshwater aquifers with brackish or saline groundwater.

Businesses currently holding a valid water well contractor license are authorized to construct open loop and closed loop geothermal wells and borings in unconsolidated materials or bedrock. After July 7, 2009 all business entities constructing open loop or closed loop geothermal wells and borings must hold a license issued by the Water Well Board.

To qualify for a water well contractor license an applicant is required have at least three years experience directly related to the type of license to be issued. Licenses are issued to a corporation or other business entity in conjunction with a named qualified individual who is an owner, partner, or employee of the business, or a corporate officer or employee directly in charge of the business affairs of the corporation, if incorporated. Written exams are required of all applicants and are specific to license type.

For more information about this licensing requirement or for a list of licensed water well contractors contact Harrison "Chip" Mackey at (603) 271-2410 or by e-mail at harrison.mackey@des.nh.gov.

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