In keeping with American University’s commitment to sustainability, construction is underway for the new Alan and Amy Meltzer Center for Athletic Performance that will feature the first geothermal heat pump system or geothermal well-field system. This renewable source of heating and cooling is part of the design strategy to make the building both AU’s first net zero energy and LEED Platinum building.

“Adding the first use of geothermal renewable energy to campus is an exciting step forward in AU’s ongoing sustainability work and marks another important milestone as we continue to advance our commitment to sustainable progress. Building efficiency and renewable energy play an important role in campus sustainability and the new Meltzer Center will be an excellent example,” says Megan Litke, Director of Sustainability.

The first of its kind on the AU campus, the geothermal system will take advantage of the relatively stable year-round 59°F temperature of the earth below the surface to help heat and cool the building. Engineers currently are drilling 85 vertical wells, each of which will be 500 feet deep, behind the Meltzer Center and on Reeves Field. Once completed, the wells will be covered entirely and hidden from view by grass and turf.

Each well is part of a closed-loop system that allows water to flow through the loop from above ground, through the loop underground, and then back up. In the winter, when the air temperature is colder than ground temperature, a heat pump will extract heat from the ground through the underground pipes. Conversely, in the summer, when air temperature is hotter than ground temperature, the system will extract heat from the building and transfer it into the cooler ground. A heat pump unit located inside the building will distribute the heated or cooled air through the building.

The geothermal wells are expected to last for 50 to 100 years beneath the landscaping. The system will be tested periodically from inside the building to ensure that it operates efficiently and no digging will be required after the initial installation. Meters will capture water temperatures as it enters the building from the loop to monitor the system as well.  

The renewable ground source heating and cooling system will compliment a reflective surface on the building’s light-colored roof which will reflect sunlight and reduce heat gain, further improving the building’s efficiency.

The Meltzer Center for Athletic Performance is a part of AU’s Student Thriving Complex (STC) designed to create new and renovated spaces that enhance resources for students’ success both in and out of the classroom. The project represents AU’s values and furthers our commitment to inclusive excellence, belonging, and student success.