Tompkins County Advances Geothermal Heating and Cooling Initiative
Tompkins County has taken significant steps toward a geothermal heating and cooling system for its government campus by approving a $2 million grant application. The total project cost is projected at over $7 million, with multiple funding sources being pursued to minimize the county's financial burden.

Tompkins County is moving forward with a geothermal project, seeking a $2 million grant from the state Department of Environmental Conservation. The total cost is estimated at over $7 million, divided into two phases.
The first phase, valued at approximately $1.9 million, is part of the planned 45,000-square-foot Center of Government project. The second phase, which aims to extend geothermal heating and cooling to multiple county buildings, is estimated at $5.26 million.
Lawmakers recognized the grant application as a soft commitment, with a local match required if awarded. The geothermal initiative aligns with the county's goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and utilizes an open-loop system based on favorable geological testing. If the project is delayed or canceled, it may impact future funding opportunities.




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