Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Energy Geothermal topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Geothermal test well reaches 800 feet at GMS site; 48-hour conductivity test results expected
Summary
Consigli completed an 800-foot geothermal test well at the GMS project site; the contractor reports grout completion and a 48-hour conductivity test with results due shortly. Low groundwater and a shallower-than-expected soft bedrock were noted.
Consigli completed an 800-foot geothermal test well at the GMS building site and completed a 48-hour conductivity test; results were expected to be returned to the project team the day after the Jan. 15 meeting.
Project staff reported crews drilled to roughly 450–500 feet on the first day, reached the 800-foot target by noon on the second day, installed the U-bend heat-exchange piping, then grouted the full 800-foot depth over roughly five days. The contractor began a 48-hour conductivity test connected to a generator; staff said they expected the test data the following day.
Project staff described two anomalies encountered during drilling: a layer of bedrock beginning around 48 feet that was softer than anticipated, which slowed drilling in the first approximately 120 feet, and a relatively low groundwater table (no appreciable water until about 650 feet). Low groundwater meant the crew did not need to discharge water to the town stormwater system and instead removed spoils and water by vacuum truck.
Staff said the test results will inform HVAC and geothermal design decisions, particularly the number of wells needed. The team estimated during feasibility that roughly 14 wells would be required to serve an estimated 74-ton load; higher well productivity could reduce the well count (and cost), while lower productivity could require one or two additional wells.
Staff also described an educational outreach opportunity: the project team has contacted the district’s science coordinator, Matt Muscarelli, and local tech and engineering teachers (named in the packet as Jessica Murphy and Bridal Quinn) to develop student learning activities tied to the geothermal test well and related systems. The district said they will coordinate hands-on learning opportunities when appropriate.
The SBC noted positive communications with neighbors and subcontractors during the drilling; staff said there were no neighbor complaints and that the operation proceeded smoothly. Temporary fencing and generator equipment remained on site for final collection.
