Description
Thermal energy networks (TENs) can reduce GHG emissions in buildings by distributing low-carbon heating and cooling to multiple buildings or facilities. While district energy and thermal energy networks have been used in campus settings for years, recent and proposed state policy changes are creating opportunities for utilities to scale their use in partnership with building owners. King County will support TENs pilot projects that have demonstrated sustainability and GHG emission reduction benefits through education and programmatic support and will advocate for additional state policy changes to enable scaling of TENs. The County will evaluate thermal energy network options for the Harborview Medical Center and Maleng Regional Justice Center renovation and remodeling efforts and will explore opportunities for district energy or TENs projects to help other County facilities meet emissions goals. King County will also continue to support private sector sewer heat recovery projects to heat and cool buildings by using the thermal energy in wastewater flowing through King County’s wastewater system.