Resources

Geothermal Heating and Cooling District Planning Project

The City of Cascade recently received Department of Energy funding (200k), as well as Idaho Office of Energy and Minerals funding (100k), to plan and design a 4th or 5th generation hybrid heating and cooling system for the City of Cascade using existing geothermal wells. The City is working on this project as part of the Cascade Geothermal Coalition, which includes Sustainable Energy, Mink GeoHydro, Horizons and West Central Mountains Economic Development Council. The design for this centralized two-pipe distribution system can potentially supply 50% of the City of Cascade’s heating and cooling energy needs. This expansion would make geothermal available for both the residential and commercial sectors, who wish to tie into the system.

Geothermal resources in Cascade can be used to heat and cool buildings throughout town in a networked two-pipe system. The temperature in the loop system is modulated by water from existing geothermal wells in Cascade that produce water in the range of 50-98F. Each of the commercial and residential buildings served by the loop will have heat pump(s) to either take or put heat into the loop.  Supply water would be served by one side and return or discharge water by the other side.

This two year project will investigate the feasibility of a heating and cooling district, determine the footprint and design for the district, identify potential users, identify workforce development and training needs related to the district, develop a financial plan/cost estimate, and estimate the costs and benefits for interested customers.

Timeline

Spring/Summer 2025

Well testing to determine flow capacity

Finalize wells for use in system and prepare well owner agreements

2026

Workforce Development Plan

Standard Operating Procedures Manual

Community Benefits Plan

Final cost estimate

Final technical and financial plan