Subterranean Success: Geothermal Energy Powering Schools Presented by: Jason Hukill, AIA, LEED AP

Today’s Learning Goal: Geothermal Terminology / Systems Benefits of Geothermal Power Limitations of Geothermal Power Common Misconceptions Sample Projects Questions / Answers / Discussion Forum Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Geothermal: what is it? Geothermal Terminology / Systems A central heating and/or cooling system that pumps heat to or from the ground. It uses the earth as a heat source (in cold season) or a heat sink (in the warm season.) Known by variety of names: Earth Energy, Geo-exchange, earth-coupled, or water source heat pumps. Different System Types: Water loop, Deep Well, Earth Loop Systems “Ground Source Heat Pump” is most common type in this region. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Ground Source Heat Pumps Take advantage of the moderate temperatures in the ground to boost energy efficiency. Should not be confused with traditional forms of geothermal power that use high temperatures. Tempered water from ground well source is pumped to a heat pump unit (usually inside the building) and then forced through a vacuum refrigeration cycle to transfer the heat. “Ground Source Heat Pump” is most common type in this region. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Implementing into your project Contact Geo-exchange surveyor to drill a test well / consult on findings for geo-exchange potential of site. Establish through master planning of site where geothermal fields will be located. Establish a building connection point for loop system. Ensure project team has adequate engineering experience on designing and specifying geothermal systems. Calculate energy savings through modeling to assist in asset potential. Give adequate mechanical space inside structure for equipment. Monitor process and progress. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Typical Components Well Field Bentonite Clay Sand Loop tubing Routing Vault Pump Unit Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Typical Components Well Field Bentonite Clay Sand Loop tubing Routing Vault Drilling Rig/Crew Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Typical Components Building Entry point for supply / return Internal Water Piping Water Source Heat Pumps Ductwork Structures Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Benefits of Geothermal Take advantage of the moderate temperatures in the ground to boost energy efficiency. Free energy from mother earth. 50+ year lifespan on ground loop exchange system. 25-30+ year lifespan on equipment (inside) Can be installed under parking lots, sports fields/tracks, etc. Lower operational costs of system. (life cycle cost advantages) Typically can be staged along side other construction. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Lifecycle Cost Advantages Return of Investment (ROI) Typically between 6-8 years depending on design and geo-exchange capacity. 20%-60% more efficient than traditional systems used. Resulting in: Power savings Energy savings Pocketbook savings Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Mechanical Screening Architectural screening not needed Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Equipment Security Exterior security of equipment not needed After thought…. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Limitations of Geothermal Well field requires open space or land for installation. Extremely limited to impossible for urban sites. Initial staff shock. (you must train your maintenance staff) Careful environmental conditions must prevail. Messy operation Typical drilling rig operating Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Common Misconceptions Too expensive…. Project needs to be near steam or fault areas…. Complexity of systems…. Added mechanical controls too much….. Environmental Concerns with drilling operations….. Too “out there” for my building….. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Sample Projects Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Blanchard High School 55,000 SF Completed 2010’ $15.2 mil Geothermal systems costs: 905k = 5.9% of budget ROI = est. 8 years Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Shawnee Early Childhood Center 55,000 SF Completed 2008’ $6.5 mil Geothermal systems costs: 400k = 6% of budget ROI = est. 7 years Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Shawnee Early Childhood Center Geothermal systems costs: 400k = 6% of budget ROI = est. 7 years Geothermal well field installed under playground Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Sapulpa Midtown Elementary 90,000 SF Completion in 08-2011’ $12.8 mil LEED for Schools (certification pending)

Geothermal systems costs: 800k = 6.3% of budget ROI = est. 5 years Well field installation under sports fields.

Northwest Library 35,000 SF Comp. 09-2011’ $8.4 mil Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Educating the Occupants Education boards/displays can highlight a buildings sustainable features Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Educating the Occupants Other board examples: Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Summary points to take with you…. Affordable EFFICIENT 20%-60% more than base Life cycle cost effective System security / protection Sustainable Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Discussion Questions Comments Thoughts / Aspirations Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools

Thank you. Subterranean Success: Geothermal in Schools