Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking a firm to conduct a geothermal site survey and feasibility study in collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia (SDP).
This study will determine the viability of implementing a closed-loop geothermal system designed to support multiple heat pumps for heating and cooling. The initiative aligns with PGW’s ongoing efforts to diversify its revenue streams, enhance customer value, expand its clean energy portfolio, and reduce emissions. Additionally, the findings will help PGW assess its potential role in delivering innovative energy solutions beyond natural gas in the future.
“Launching a feasibility study for geothermal in collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia is a critical step in the near term to identify strategies to help diversify the revenue of PGW, sustain jobs, reduce emissions, and offer customers a variety of cost-saving energy efficiency options,” said Seth Shapiro, PGW President and Chief Executive Officer. “This kind of partnership is key in keeping PGW financially strong for its customers in the long term, while also delivering on Mayor Parker’s clean and green vision by improving quality of life for Philadelphians.”
Through its collaboration with SDP, PGW is supporting the district’s GreenFutures Plan, which aims to create a well-equipped, safe, healthy, and sustainable learning and working environment for students and staff. The study will focus on John F. McCloskey Elementary School (8500 Pickering Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19150) and the adjacent Dorothy Emanuel Recreation Center (8500 Provident Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19150), where the selected firm will assess the networked energy needs and system requirements for geothermal implementation. Key considerations will include geological conditions, available space for underground borehole installations, and the potential design of a decentralized geothermal unit with pumping capabilities.
“By partnering with Philadelphia Gas Works to explore innovative energy solutions within our schools, we aim to provide clean and efficient heating and cooling options, enhance our school environment, reduce costs, and be part of a key initiative that helps pave the way for equitable, sustainable energy strategies that benefit all Philadelphians,” said Deputy Superintendent of Operations Oz Hill, School District of Philadelphia.
“There is no silver bullet to meet a clean energy vision; it will take a multifaceted approach. We greatly appreciate the careful planning and due diligence taken by everyone involved to date to get us to this point including feedback from key stakeholders and the public,” said Shapiro. “We value our customers and take seriously our responsibility to pursue innovation that benefits their safety and affordability and helps lay the foundation for the future.”