This study assessed the applicability of a geothermal system in
\nswine production facilities. In-barn evaluation of the impact of the
\ngeothermal system on energy use, thermal environment, greenhouse
\ngas emissions, and animal performance was conducted by comparing
\na swine grow-fi nish room with geothermal system to a conventional
\nproduction room with a forced-convection gas-fi red heater system
\nover summer and winter seasons. Results showed that the room
\nwith the geothermal system consumed about 36% less total energy
\nfor heating and ventilation during cold season compared to the
\nconventional room. However, during the warm season, the use of
\nthe geothermal system to cool the room resulted in larger energy
\nuse compared to the control room. Levels of greenhouse gases,
\nnamely, methane and carbon dioxide in the geothermal room when
\nthe system was in operation were signifi cantly lower than that in the
\nroom with the conventional gas-fi red heater during both heating and
\ncooling periods.<\/p>\n