The Denver Museum of Nature & Science has received a $250,000 grant from the Colorado Energy Office to explore a geothermal heating and cooling system aimed at reducing its reliance on natural gas steam boilers. Qvantum, a Swedish heat pump system company, will provide expertise in designing the system.
The project plans to implement an "ambient loop" combining small and large heat pumps, which could significantly lower CO2 emissions and enhance air quality. This system allows excess thermal energy to be reused within the building and includes interseasonal heating and cooling, leveraging geothermal energy stored in the ground.
The feasibility study, coordinated by BCER with Qvantum experts, will help determine the system's viability. The Denver Museum aims to become one of the first in the U.S. to adopt this innovative technology, which is part of a broader $7.7 million geothermal energy initiative by Colorado Governor Jared Polis.
George Sparks, CEO of the Museum, emphasizes the potential of this project to decarbonize their energy systems and advance sustainable practices in museum operations.
