Client: Princeton University
Year: 2015 to Present
Project Highlights
- New system expected to be over 5 times more efficient
- Completing initial construction with a detailed plan extending through 2029
Designing and Implementing Next-Gen Heating and Cooling Systems with Geo-Exchange
FVB played a key role in the Princeton University Energy Infrastructure Master Plan and is now engaged in the plan implementation though designing the Hot Water and Chilled Water Distribution Systems.
From 2015 to 2017, FVB helped Princeton University develop an Energy Infrastructure Master Plan, addressing both near-term (10 years) and long-term objectives, including a goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2046.
FVB’s work as a subcontractor to Burns & McDonnell focused on:
- Analysis and planning for conversion from steam to hot water district heating
- Heating and cooling distribution modeling
- Technical and cost analysis of solar photovoltaic power and solar thermal heating
- Technical, cost and GHG analysis of bioenergy options, including biogas and bioliquids
- Assessment of battery storage to facilitate increased utilization of solar PV and to potentially increase income from power grid ancillary services
- Life cycle cost methodology & analysis, including calculation of life cycle costs per ton of CO2 reduced
Based on the Energy Infrastructure Master Plan, Princeton has retained the same team to design the initial phases of its implementation. This project encompasses a major transition from steam to low-temperature hot water for heating distribution, an expansion of the chilled water system, and the development of geo-exchange plant capacity to supply both low-temperature hot water and chilled water.
FVB is leading the design of several phases required for the first decade of the Master Plan. This work involves designing a new hot water district heating system, expanding the existing chilled water system, and includes comprehensive hydraulic modeling, design and specification development, cost estimation, and the creation of a phased conversion schedule. FVB will also provide support during the bidding, construction, and commissioning phases..
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Keywords
Steam-to-hot water conversion, Geo-exchange, Energy Infrastructure Master Plan, Solar PV