County officials seek funding to fix failing geothermal system at local jail

In the heart of Okanogan County, a pressing issue unfolded during the recent Commissioners Meeting on April 9, 2025, as officials grappled with significant challenges surrounding the county's geothermal heating and cooling system. The discussion revealed a complex web of technical difficulties and financial implications that could impact the county's energy efficiency goals.

The meeting highlighted concerns about the geothermal system's performance, particularly regarding the extraction and injection wells. Officials noted that silt accumulation had severely compromised the heat exchangers, leading to operational failures and increased costs. "We’re trying to figure out what we do," one commissioner remarked, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The county had initially invested in this geothermal system to reduce energy bills, but the current state of the system has led to unexpected expenses and operational setbacks.

As the conversation progressed, it became clear that the county was facing a daunting financial burden. A quote for necessary upgrades to the heat exchangers alone reached nearly $489,000. Additionally, the county anticipates further costs, potentially totaling around $1.5 million, to rectify the ongoing issues with the geothermal system. "We want to try to find some funding to make this thing right," a commissioner stated, underscoring the need for external support to address the crisis.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of the geothermal project, revealing that maintenance protocols had not been adequately followed since its implementation. This oversight has contributed to the current challenges, with officials recalling that filters intended to prevent silt from entering the system may not have been properly sized or maintained. "It wasn’t that it wasn’t prevalent at all; it was that it wasn’t maintained," one participant noted, reflecting on the past mismanagement.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for a solution was palpable. The county's jail, which has been without adequate cooling for three years, is now relying on costly air conditioning units to manage the heat. The commissioners are determined to find a path forward, seeking assistance from state commerce resources to alleviate the financial strain and restore the geothermal system to its intended functionality.

The outcome of this meeting could have lasting implications for Okanogan County's energy strategy and its commitment to sustainable practices. As officials continue to navigate these challenges, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that will not only restore comfort to the jail but also reaffirm the county's investment in renewable energy solutions.