A Geothermal Conversion Feasibility Study for Marquette University

Networked geothermal heating and cooling offers an incredibly efficient method for the thermal management of buildings. We have undertaken a feasibility study for a full campus conversion of Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. This study shows that even in our relatively cold and urban setting, geothermal conversion is not only possible but is also very cost-competitive. Our proposed system overcomes some challenges of an urban environment by networking with existing sewer lines, and we estimate a net-present-value savings of $67 million over 30 years (after tax incentives). Geothermal campus conversions are not only sensible from an economic and energy perspective, but also offer educational opportunities for physics students by challenging commonly held beliefs about the physics of energy use.