Description
Improving district energy systems
District energy systems can heat and cool many buildings at once. New systems can use energy sources that create little or no carbon emissions. Our cold winters limit options for heating buildings in a carbon-free way. Geothermal systems are one option that could make a big impact if put in district energy systems. They don’t use fossil gas. Instead, they use the temperature of the earth and groundwater to heat and cool buildings.
Using technology like geothermal in district energy systems:
- Lowers greenhouse gas emissions
- Impacts many buildings with one upgrade
- Simplifies the process for individual building owners
What’s happening now
Geothermal systems are a good option. But they need careful planning, funds, and collaboration to work. As we build new and renovate older City-owned buildings, we’ll work to connect them to district and geothermal systems. We’re also looking at how to help building owners use district energy at City-owned sites.