Installation of Geothermal HVAC System at Admin Facility.

Recipient: Champaign-urbana Mass Transit District (inc)

Funding Agency: Federal Transit Administration

Grant Amount: $450,000

Local Amount: $450,000

Grant Description: Using public transportation is one of the most important measures for reducing the primary carbon footprint in the transportation section. The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (CUMTD) makes every effort to operate its buses and facilities as efficiently as possible, to minimize the environmental impact.

A high energy efficient Geothermal Heat Pump System is proposed to replace conventional heating and cooling systems (AC and furnace) as a part of this effort. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), geothermal heat pump systems are the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective space conditioning systems available. A vertical ground closed loop system will be used by considering the limited yard space around this building and with minimum disruption to the existing landscape.

This system could save as much as 50 percent on the heating and cooling bill. In addition to their energy savings and cost effectiveness, geothermal heat pump systems offer aesthetic advantages, quiet operation, free or reduced-cost hot water, improved comfort, and low maintenance.

While a geothermal heat pump system typically requires a greater initial investment, it is important to keep in mind that it can reduce the heating and cooling costs of the building significantly. This project will be a great showcase to expand public awareness on sustainable technologies and educate future generations.

Project Description: Purchase and installation of complete geothermal HVAC system for the District's administration facility. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), geothermal heat pump systems are the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective space conditioning systems available. This will be replacing a 'system' that has some parts to it that are over 50 years old. In addition, the old 'system' has been cobbled together from many different types over years as the building was added on to.

Job Creation: 0