Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 26, The city of Cascade, Idaho, is undertaking a feasibility study to explore the use of geothermal energy for a district heating and cooling system, which could reduce energy costs by up to 66% for connected homes and businesses. The initiative, named the “Geothermal Heating and Cooling District Planning Project,” is assessing the viability of establishing such a system in Cascade.

Planned geothermal district heating and cooling network in Cascade, Idaho

The project’s objectives include evaluating the design and scope of the heating and cooling district, identifying potential users, determining workforce training needs, creating a financial plan, and estimating costs and benefits for participants. Funded by a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy and an additional $100,000 from the Idaho Office of Energy and Minerals, the study is expected to conclude by 2026.

Cascade plans to utilize seven existing geothermal wells to supply the proposed network. Two of these wells have heated Cascade Schools and the Cascade Aquatic & Recreation Center for over 15 years, while the remaining wells, one city-owned and the others privately owned, are currently unused. The study will assess the wells’ capacities and gauge interest from potential customers to inform the system’s design and cost estimates.

If the project moves forward, Cascade will need to build distribution lines to deliver geothermal energy to homes and businesses. The current grants do not cover this construction phase, so the city plans to seek additional funding, potentially through new grants or a bond. No final funding decisions have been made.

Customers interested in joining the system would need to connect to the distribution network and install geothermal heat pumps. City officials highlighted available incentives from the federal government and Idaho Power, which could cover 50% to 70% of heat pump installation costs. City engineer Trevor Howard emphasized the long-term benefits, stating: “Heating and cooling with geothermal heat pumps costs about a third of the cost of electricity or propane heat.”

The project aims to provide a sustainable and cost-effective energy solution for Cascade, leveraging its geothermal resources to enhance energy efficiency and reduce expenses for residents and businesses.