November AdminiScope

GEOTHERMAL HVAC CAN SAVE 25-50% ON ENERGY FOR OHIO SCHOOLS

Saving energy is one of the best strategies for becoming a more successful school district. Not only does it free up money for more important things like teacher salaries and supplies, it becomes a lesson in itself on how to become more efficient and sustainable. Geothermal heating and cooling systems are a great way to accomplish the above for new as well as existing schools with aging equipment. The technology is simple in that it uses the Earth’s natural temperature to heat and cool your offices and classrooms, and it is proven based on thousands of schools and other buildings benefitting from it for years. In fact, schools throughout Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky are currently saving 25-50% on HVAC energy costs and gaining more comfortable interior spaces at the same time. The only reason this technology has not gone mainstream for all schools is the incremental

first cost. However, as with any investment, the question to ask is not just “what does it cost?”, but more importantly “what is the payback?” And fortunately, there are new financing tools available to bridge the gap between the cost and payback. One financing tool is a long-term lease. The 30% incremental cost of the geothermal HVAC system is paid for through energy savings within the first 10 years. After that, all savings go to the school’s benefit. Better yet, the ground loop which accounts for this incremental cost will last 50+ years. Other financing tools include utility rebates, House Bill 264, and COPS. The right solution will be a function of what is currently available and the school district’s needs and preferences. So stop wasting money heating and cooling your buildings the old-fashioned way. Geothermal HVAC is the way of the future!

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