SALEM, MASS. – May 30, 2024 - Achieve Renewable Energy, LLC. has been selected by St. Peter’s-San Pedro Episcopal Church to conduct a feasibility study for a purpose-driven network GeoExchange project that would bring a cost-effective, low-carbon source of heating and cooling to the church and neighboring commercial and public housing units. The project aims to provide a community benefit of equitable energy and a reduction in carbon emissions. St. Peter’s-San Pedro Episcopal Church won a HEET grant for $50K to fund the study. HEET is a Massachusetts climate solutions incubator selecting up to 10 projects across Massachusetts with funding from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
"Reverend Ives and his congregation have created a visionary energy project," says Larry Lessard, Founder and Director of Achieve Renewable Energy, LLC. "With a networked GeoExchange system, the Church will become a renewable energy hub, bringing clean heating and cooling to the low-income neighborhood it serves. It also has the potential to connect to future geothermal networks.” The feasibility study by Achieve Renewable Energy and its engineering partner B2Q Associates, Inc. will evaluate critical data such as electric use, fossil fuel consumption, building-level peak demands, technical practicability of ground-source heat pumps, electrification options, and more.
GeoExchange is the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, renewable resource, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It uses the naturally lower temperature beneath the Earth’s surface to fully heat and cool homes and commercial buildings. GeoExchange is often generically referred to as ‘geothermal’. The technology uses electrically operated ground-source heat pumps as a ground heat exchanger to store heat in the Earth during the cooling season and retrieve heat during the heating season. GeoExchange completely replaces the use of oil or gas for heating and reduces electricity needed for cooling.
The Church’s plan to replace its aging, gas-fed steam system with a networked GeoExchange heat pump aligns with Massachusetts' state goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. A GeoExchange system can be 300-400% more efficient than conventional HVAC systems and would reduce the Church’s energy bills while improving comfort. The system would also optimize usage and trim peak demand, providing all users with constant, comfortable temperatures. Since GeoExchange infrastructures are located below ground, they require minimal maintenance and can last up to 100 years. The Church anticipates that solar panels will generate much of the electricity needed for the system.
The agreement was signed May 17 with work beginning shortly. The completed feasibility study is expected by December and will be discussed with the City of Salem and the community.
Achieve Renewable Energy, LLC based in Salem, Massachusetts, has extensive experience designing and installing commercial, residential, and district geothermal systems, as well as utilizing various ground heat exchangers. Its staff is accredited by the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association. It is the only design and installation company in New England with its own Certified GeoExchange Designer and Certified Geothermal Inspector. The company’s clients include residential properties, offices, hospitality, libraries, multi-families, houses of worship, school districts, manufacturers, and healthcare institutions. Achieve Renewable Energy, LLC is a member of the New England Geothermal Professional Association with Larry Lessard serving as its President. For more information, visit https://achieverenewable.com.
