University News

Drilling of Geothermal Wells underway at Bishop’s University

June 14, 2011

Sherbrooke QC, June 14, 2011 – As of last week, piles of dirt, dump trucks and men in hard hats have overrun the Bishop’s University soccer field located next to the W.B. Scott Arena.  Shortly this field will be home to more than just soccer practice; it will soon house 60 geothermal wells which are currently being drilled by the company Ameresco.  

Bishop’s University, with the expertise of Ameresco, is implementing a campus wide energy efficiency project with the geothermal wells as the cornerstone.  These wells will be used to heat and cool the campus, resulting in savings of $325,000 per year as a result of the elimination of steam heating replaced by geothermal heating and decentralized high efficiency natural gas hot water furnaces.  The results are also significant for the environment as geothermal heating allows Bishop’s to minimize its reliance on natural gas.  The annual reduction in natural gas will be equivalent to the amount needed to heat 337 large family homes.  The campuses greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by more than 60%, the equivalent of removing 1478 cars from the road.

The drilling and installation of the closed circuit piping will continue for six weeks before the natural sports field is restored to its former appearance and purpose.  To see a live photo of the drilling operation, please go to the Bishop’s web site at:
www.ubishops.ca/energy-efficiency-projects/

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