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Vernal council tables $20,000 Phase 1 geothermal feasibility study
Summary
City staff and a consultant outlined a proposed geothermal thermal-energy network with an initial Phase 1 cost of $20,000; council voted to table the study pending more information from municipalities that have implemented similar systems.
Public Works Director Keith Despain presented a concept for a geothermal thermal energy network—a shared, water-based loop to provide heating and cooling to clusters of buildings. Staff provided a conceptual estimate that about one mile of geothermal loop with eleven building connections could cost roughly $2 million, and consultant Matt Garlick of Gray Edge Group described case studies that demonstrated long-term utility cost savings and high system efficiency. "As a preliminary estimate, he projected that approximately one mile of geothermal loop with eleven building connections could cost roughly $2 million," Despain said.
Mr. Garlick proposed a phased study approach, with Phase One as a $20,000 fixed-fee feasibility study to identify building clusters, estimate thermal loads and assess funding paths. Councilmembers pressed for peer examples, detailed phased costs, maintenance histories and grant opportunities before committing city funds. On a motion by Councilmember Nick Porter, seconded by Councilmember Ted Munford, the council tabled Phase 1 to collect more information from public entities that have completed similar projects.
