Overview

In 2000, we evaluated the University’s central boiler plant and steam distribution system utilities. We assessed the condition and expected life for each of the plant’s systems to recommended courses of action for the University to continue with its campus steam heating system. The existing plant functioned using older equipment, including three coal-fired boilers, two gas-fired boilers, and a variety of aging auxiliary systems. The steam distribution system consisted of approximately 11,000 linear feet of piping ranging from 2 to 10-inch piping. The majority of the steam piping was installed in the 1950s and 1960s.

As part of the heating utility master plan, we developed various renovation and replacement options for the University’s consideration, including refurbishing existing boilers and plant systems, converting to natural gas / oil operation, and constructing a new central steam plant in 2006.

The University used the recommendations within the utility master plan to make an informed decision, opting to construct a new central boiler plant on the campus. We were subsequently selected to complete the engineering and architectural design this new plant with three 30,000 lb/hr boilers fired on natural gas or fuel oil. The facility included the new boiler room, a maintenance shop, offices, electrical room, locker room, and a conference room. The project also included 1,500 feet of steam piping, condensate piping, a campus condensate receiving and pumping station, 30,000 gallon fuel oil storage, emergency generator, water lines, new roadways, and parking lot improvements. Additionally, the natural gas piping required an analysis of the campus system to determine if modifications / upgrades were needed.

Campus-Wide Utility Master Plan

In 2019, the University engaged Entech to complete a comprehensive campus-wide utility master plan to determine the conditions of the existing utility infrastructure on campus and recommend repairs and upgrades to the utility systems. Heating, cooling, electrical, IT, water, wastewater, and stormwater were all included. In addition to identifying the needs of the existing systems, we evaluated 3 options to provide heating and cooling to the campus. We also evaluated combined heat and power (CHP), wind, solar and ground source options.