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2015 Autumn | Business & Sustainability, Sustainability

Renewable Energy at Universities: How Solar Thermal Heating Systems Help Achieve Carbon Emission Reduction Goals and Save on Energy Spending

Student(s):

Garrett Brooks

Program or Department(s):

  • Program on the Environment
  • University of Washington

Site supervisor(s):

Marilyn Ostergren

Partner(s):

  • UW Sustainability

Faculty advisor(s):

Karen Litfin, Political Science, University of Washington

During my project, I looked for ways the University of Washington could both reduce its carbon footprint and minimize energy costs by implementing renewable energy systems on campus. After hearing about an obso- lete steam heating system that needs to be replaced from UW Facilities Services, I took the opportunity to design a solar thermal system that could provide hot water to keep the Intramural Activities Building’s swimming pool warm throughout the year. Through scholarly research and hands-on planning, I found that implementing such a system would provide the UW with benefits to their budget and the environment.