AVF project: An enhanced geothermal system could bring clean, renewable heat and a smaller carbon footprint to Cornell by 2035. Cornell’s Earth Source Heat (ESH) project will use hot water from deep within the Earth to heat Ithaca campus buildings. The researchers aim to refine this emerging technology by testing techniques for mapping how fluids move underground, optimal well placement and long-term safety monitoring. The team will also engage community stakeholders in assessing perceived risks and benefits and planning ESH implementation.

The supplemental grant funds at least three independent research projects: collecting and analyzing seismic data and preparing results for the public; identifying factors that influence public support for ESH and learning to communicate about the project effectively; and testing satellite observations to monitor the subsurface; as well as participation of undergraduates in collection of data in the field.