Spring 2024

We’re adding a closed-loop geothermal system to the College in our Chapel Circle green space.

Our geothermal system will provide efficient, clean energy to heat and cool the library. This new system will reduce at least 265 MMBTU of fossil gas and 145,724 kWh of purchased electrical energy usage each year. The carbon emissions associated with these savings equal 51 metric tons, or 11.3 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year.

How Does It Work?

A closed loop geothermal system continuously circulates water through buried pipes. The water either deposits or absorbs heat from the ground depending on the season.

Closed loop systems are filled once and require a moderate amount of water because the same water is used again and again. No fluid escapes and no outside materials can enter the pipes.

Geothermal heat pump systems use the ground for energy storage, resulting in very high efficiency. Heat from summer cooling is stored in the ground and recovered during the winter for heating.

Project Timeline

The project will feature 39 wells, which are being drilled from January - to March 2024. Additional infrastructure will be installed beginning in March. All existing HVAC units will be replaced with new high-efficiency geothermal heat pumps. The project is anticipated to be completed prior to the start of the Fall 2024 semester.