Eversource launches groundbreaking geothermal project for clean energy

During a recent government meeting, the school committee discussed and voted on the Eversource geothermal demonstration program service agreement, a significant step in advancing clean energy initiatives within the community. City Sustainability Coordinator Sean Luz provided an update on the project, which builds upon a site license agreement approved last year for the Farley building. This agreement allows for the installation of geothermal infrastructure, including bore fields, pumps, and piping, aimed at providing clean heating and cooling to residents, businesses, and municipal facilities.

Luz expressed gratitude to the committee for their previous support and highlighted the successful commissioning event held on June 4, which showcased the collaboration between Eversource and the school department. The customer service agreement presented during the meeting is a derivative of the earlier site license agreement and has received approval from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) and the city solicitor. This agreement is crucial for facilitating the necessary building conversion work at the Farley building, enabling it to benefit from the geothermal project.

Committee member Mister Freudberg praised the partnership between Eversource and the city, emphasizing the project's innovative nature and its potential to serve as a model for future infrastructure initiatives. He noted the excitement surrounding the pilot program, which is the first of its kind in the nation, and expressed optimism about the forthcoming study results that could lead to further expansion of the project.

The committee unanimously moved to accept the recommendation, marking a significant milestone in the community's efforts to embrace sustainable energy solutions.