The University of Virginia currently heats the facilities across the Grounds using steam and medium temperature hot water. To help meet sustainability goals and better use available energy, a low temperature hot water (LTHW) conversion action plan was developed. Thorough evaluation of the existing infrastructure included thermal load intensity and construction feasibility. From this a “hub” approach was identified to provide a phased conversion to LTHW, yielding improved controllability and energy efficiency for the entire district heating system. Several renewable and high efficiency technology improvements were evaluated for integration into the new low grade heat infrastructure.
Ben Dombrowski, Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.