Project: Geothermal District Pilot in Citizen Potawatomi Nation
Initiative: District-Scale Geothermal Energy Pilots
Project Lead: University of Oklahoma
Project Timeline: 10/01/2023- 3/31/2028
The Geothermal District Pilot in Citizen Potawatomi Nation project, in partnership with Citizen Potawatomi Nation (CPN), will demonstrate the performance of a solar-geothermal district heating and cooling system with a single ambient- temperature pipe loop and electric-powered heat pumps in a CPN community. The project, part of the Office of Geothermal’s District-Scale Geothermal Energy Pilots initiative, supports application of geothermal technology to regions that do not have ground heat resources that are economically feasible for direct use.
During Phase 1 of the project (Oct. 2023 – Dec. 2024), the project completed four major tasks: (1) overall project planning and data collection, (2) development and validation of the integrated simulation testbed, (3) finalizing system design through engineering feasibility study, and (4) completion of the performance assessment and a workforce development plan.
Phase 2, currently underway, aims to construct a main loop and install heat pumps in residential buildings, connecting them to building branches and then to the main loop. Additionally, the project will create a workforce development program, deploying the training programs through three lead universities and participating trade schools.
Learn more about the Office of Geothermal’s District-Scale Geothermal Energy Pilots and engagement with Tribal and Native Entities.