As society continues to advance in the age of everyday energy efficiency, school buildings are evolving through geothermal technology.

 

This summer, it was announced that both Banneker and Aldie Elementary schools would begin major renovations to reduce energy consumption by more than 40 percent while improving the learning environment for students. The work began at both locations on Friday, June 18, and is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2021-2022 school year on August 26.The schools will be two of the first in the county to undergo the energy efficient renovations as a part of a larger pilot program.

 

“We are excited and proud to be one of the first schools in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia to have geothermal technology,” said Aldie Elementary School Principal Tracy Stephens. “One of our core beliefs at Aldie Elementary is to serve as stewards of the environment. We want our students to understand the meaning of responsible energy consumption. With the help and support of the CMTA Project Managers and LCPS Energy Team, our students will not only experience a cleaner and healthier learning environment, they will have the opportunity to learn how geothermal technology helps us reduce our energy consumption. This is an opportunity to show students through our actions and investment that we can make a difference as stewards of the environment.”

 

Each site will receive a new geothermal heat pump system installed throughout the school. Geothermal is an environmentally friendly choice to deliver conditioned air. A geothermal well field has been placed in an open field adjacent to each of the school buildings.The existing heating ventilation and air conditioning systems at both schools were decommissioned and demolished.

 

In addition to the new heating and cooling system, Aldie and Banneker received a series of building efficiency upgrades such as LED lighting, upgraded electric services and weatherization to upgrade and improve the school buildings and learning atmosphere for students.

 

“I remember teaching my seventh-grade science class about responsible energy consumption 15 years ago,” said Robert Carter, Principal of Banneker Elementary. “Geothermal energy was state-of-the-art but an expensive ‘pipe dream’ back then. Banneker will be 74 years old in March of this school year. “This type of pledge towards long-term responsible energy consumption demonstrates the county’s commitment to securing Banneker’s future. Our community is so appreciative of the county’s investment in our building and in our kids.”

 

Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) has spent $21 million this summer to upgrade the HVAC systems and perform other energy efficiency enhancements at Aldie, Banneker, Catoctin Elementary, Middleburg Community Charter School, Broad Run High School and Loudoun Valley High School. To learn more about the division’s sustainability efforts, visit https://www.lcps.org/sustainability. 

 

Published 8/12/21