Campus Energy Networks

About Our Networks

MSU operates several industry-leading thermal energy networks that provide low carbon heating and cooling to connected campus buildings.

Leon Johnson Hall Energy Network

Established in 2009, the Leon Johnson Hall Energy Network was one of the first heat pump-based district heating and cooling systems in the region. This 4th-generation district system features a central heat pump plant producing both chilled and hot water, and incorporates renewable geothermal energy via a field of 50 bores. Since its installation, the network has expanded to serve five buildings: Leon Johnson Hall, Wilson Hall, Tietz Hall, and Jabs Hall.

South Campus Ambient Loop

In 2022, significant new construction and major renovations in the south area of campus enabled the installation of a 5th-generation ambient loop. This is the most advanced district energy approach currently being deployed worldwide. Unlike conventional district systems, the ambient loop operates near ground temperature, allowing buildings to share low-grade thermal energy with one another rather than drawing from a central heat source.

The South Campus Energy Network currently connects Romney Hall, the Student Wellness Center, and the Romney Oval geothermal bore field (80 bores at 700 ft deep). MSU is actively evaluating future expansion opportunities, including a potential connection to Jones Hall and its associated geothermal bore field (77 bores at 700 ft deep).

Geothermal Bore Fields

There are currently six closed loop ground heat exchanger (GHX) systems with a total of 390 wells installed. These systems provide heating and cooling to connected buildings. Additionally, three open-source wells located near Barnard Hall support process cooling systems.

The first geothermal bores were installed in 2014 near Jabs Hall. MSU continues to evaluate opportunities to install new geothermal bore fields where space and funding allow. Most of the systems have been installed in conjunction with new building construction or major building renovations.