Preplanning and Feasibility Assessment Service
Nothing is more important to the cost-efficient integration of geothermal HVAC technology than effective preplanning.
The earth’s temperature and geologic structure are the most significant variables in any geothermal HVAC project. Identifying and managing the variability is important to the successful integration of geothermal HVAC. That’s why we strongly advocate the preplanning and feasibility assessment process. Without it, you are simply leaving too much to chance.
Before drilling test bores, we provide estimation of installation costs and identify development risks. While not intended to replace exploratory drilling and geothermal testing, our two-step assessment process provides the data needed for an initial go/no go decision, before you incur significant testing and engineering expense.
STEP 1: Determine lowest cost system configuration. Through an iterative modeling process, we establish a GHX/hybrid system configuration likely to yield lowest lifecycle cost. Often the size of the GHX can be reduced significantly by incorporating a cooling device and/or boiler into the hydronic system. By determining the point at which lowest first costs and lowest operating costs converge, we can develop a more cost-efficient strategy to incorporate ground source HVAC into a given project.
STEP 2: Validation of ground heat exchanger viability. Through more comprehensive investigation, we identify site-specific risks associated with the installation of a GHX, and recommend steps for mitigation. We evaluate hydrogeologic conditions and recommend the appropriate installation that can help optimize lifecycle costs and minimize site impact. We will create a schematic design to suit identified project restraints and calculate an accurate installation budget. We complete this step by specifying the exploratory drilling and environmental/geothermal testing required for precise design and minimized construction complications.
Braun Intertec Geothermal Preplanning and Feasibility Assessment Services:
- Environmental/cultural resources investigation and risk assessment
- Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments and impact studies
- Hybrid ground heat exchange optimization planning based on lowest probable lifecycle costs
- Hydrogeologic study and planning of ground heat exchange method/best installation practices
- Coordinated schematic ground heat exchanger design
- Geothermal/environmental site investigation work planning and specification
- Expert ground heat exchanger design/construction cost budgeting
For more information on our geothermal consulting services, please contact us.