Document Type

Paper

Abstract

Calvin University has committed to being carbon neutral by 2057. This entails removing all the natural gas consumption for heating, converting to electrical heating options, and then making carbon free electricity. This project looked into four different options: air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, renewable natural gas, and the efficiency of current equipment. Each option was examined throughout the course of the semester to determine feasibility of each solution, and which ones would be best to implement. As a class, section A decided ground source heat pumps along with thermostatic valves and the implementation of double pane windows would be the most beneficial option for Calvin to become carbon neutral. With the solution of converting all buildings on and off campus to a designated heating loop, the capital investment would equal $28 million with the breakeven year in 2061. This solution highlights what it would take to move Calvin University towards carbon neutrality.

Publication Date

12-7-2022

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