Colorado Mesa University Saves $15 Million with Advanced Geothermal Heating and Cooling Network
Colorado Mesa University has saved over $15 million in energy costs since implementing a geothermal heating and cooling system. The network, initiated in 2008, utilizes hundreds of boreholes to tap into low-temperature thermal energy, significantly reducing energy needs and water consumption. This system allows the university to share heating and cooling loads across buildings, resulting in high efficiency and lower operational costs. Xcel Energy confirmed the system's effectiveness, highlighting its potential for broader community applications.

Colorado Mesa University has implemented an advanced geothermal heating and cooling system since 2008, saving over $15 million in energy costs. The system consists of hundreds of boreholes drilled 500 feet underground, which tap into low-temperature thermal energy.
This network allows the university to heat and cool buildings efficiently, requiring approximately half as much energy compared to similar structures. It facilitates load sharing between buildings, with a coefficient of performance ranging from 3.6 to 8.9.
The system also reduced annual water consumption by 10 million gallons. The initiative has garnered interest from over 80 Colorado communities seeking to develop similar systems.




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