GeoEco Plant
Central Washington University
With a primary goal for becoming more carbon-neutral and a commitment to environmental stewardship, Central Washington University embraced geothermal technology for the new North Academic Complex (NAC) and GeoEco Plant.
Size: 4,000 sf
Location: Ellensburg, WA
Design Architect: Opsis Architecture
Architect of Record: NAC Architecture
A first-of-its-kind in Washington, the GeoEco Plant features a geothermal well that will heat the NAC and up to three more buildings on CWU’s campus by utilizing the renewable heat emitted from the Ellensburg Aquifer. Pursuing dual Living Future Challenge Zero Carbon and Zero Energy certification, the CWU GeoEco Plant incorporates warm wood and large windows to foster a conducive environment for students to explore geothermal power and envision a carbon-neutral future.
Going beyond its environmental impacts, the GeoEco Plant will create educational opportunities for students across courses like geology, sustainability, engineering and design. The GeoEco Plant and it’s connection to the new NAC, as well as demolition of two buildings on campus, will be equivalent to a roughly 50-year total carbon reduction. These combined improvements and campus initiatives, guided by CWU’s Climate Action Plan, will equal the removal of approximately 7,200 cars from the road.
