Geothermal

Affected by geothermal upgrades? Click here

Exciting updates are happening to bring Notre Dame's main campus closer to its carbon neutrality goal. Among a myriad of decarbonization projects, geothermal is an integral part of the Utilities Long-Range Plan (ULRP) for meeting the energy demands of a growing campus. By transitioning to geothermal heating and cooling on campus, we're reducing the energy needed to maintain a comfortable environment in our buildings.

Major projects have been completed across campus since the spring of 2017 to establish well fields and infrastructure for leveraging geothermal heating and cooling. Over the coming decades, Utilities staff will be embarking on the next chapter of the ULRP to transition campus to geothermal heating and cooling, as individual buildings will be addressed to become connected to the larger geothermal network. 

What is geothermal, and how does it work?

Geothermal exchange, commonly referred to on campus as geothermal, is a technology that harnesses the constant temperature of the earth underground to make it easier to heat and cool our buildings. Notre Dame's geothermal systems utilize a network of closed-loop wells bored 300 feet below campus that take advantage of the constant 50°F average temperatures year-round, circulating water to exchange heat (absorb or reject). This heat exchanger is then used in concert with heat pumps to either create heating hot water or chilled water to be distributed to buildings across the University. To put the energy savings into perspective: it's more efficient to heat a building to 70°F when you start at 50°F, versus starting at 20°F on a cold winter day. 

Where is geothermal located on campus?

Geothermal well fields continue to expand across campus. Notable established sites include Ricci Fields, Stadium Lot, East Quad near McCourtney, and Joyce Lot. To better distribute heating and cooling throughout campus, the Southeast Geothermal Plant has been developed and is expected to begin commissioning in early 2026. For the most up-to-date project updates, visit the Facilities Design and Operations website. 

Who do I contact for questions about geothermal updates in my building? 

Contact Andy Katzelis from the Utilities team via email at akatzel3@nd.edu or phone at 574-631-2209.  

Is my building being affected?

Buildings that are set to undergo updates for geothermal heating and cooling will be staggered systematically. A Utilities project manager will be in contact with your building manager ahead of any scheduled renovation. Potential disruptions will be communicated to you with time to plan accordingly. The average time for this renovation work will vary building by building. While geothermal expansion is a significant step for campus' long-term goals, the disruption is relatively low and should minimally affect your ability to learn or work. If you have specific questions about your building, contact your building manager directly, or reach out to the Utilities team.

Continue to check back on this page periodically for updates on geothermal expansion.