##Geothermal Heating and Cooling Moves Forward at Missituk, to Follow Roberts Roof Replacement
I was PSYCHED to vote for Option 2 at tonight’s School Committee meeting which was approval from the Committee to move forward with geothermal heating and cooling as part of Missituk’s roof and HVAC replacement project through the MSBA’s Accelerated Repair Program.
Here’s the comparison that stood out to me and made my choice: about $1.16 million more upfront in the anticipated city share, roughly 20% less modeled energy use than the air-to-water heat-pump option, and approximately $778,000 lower modeled costs over 25 years.
What I like about this approach is paying more upfront while the MSBA shares eligible construction costs, then keeping the operating savings here in Medford over time. Those are estimates, not guaranteed savings. The analysis depends on projected energy costs and qualifying for the anticipated incentives, including the geothermal tax credit.
The project also includes replacing the aging roof, updating classroom ventilation, and accessibility improvements. The geothermal system would provide heating and cooling, with electric boilers for backup. Tonight’s vote moves the project forward. Design, approvals, and construction still lie ahead.
← More from Mike