Going deep: Princeton lays the foundation for a ‘net-zero’ campus

Originally published by Princeton University: For Princeton University to meet its energy needs, along with its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by its 300th anniversary in 2046, a complete rethinking is required on how energy is used and supplied in every lab, every office, every dorm room, in each parking lot and garage — even on pathways and playing fields.

The groundwork for this massive undertaking is being installed now as the University undergoes one of the most extensive building programs in its history over the next decade. Like most institutions, Princeton historically has relied upon energy sources — primarily steam heat and electricity — that are powered by burning fossil fuels. Today, the University is moving toward a system that will employ a combination of combustion-free technologies to optimize and reduce overall energy usage and eliminate carbon emissions.

Integral Group, a sponsor of the 2021 Getting to Zero Forum, worked with Princeton to perform a sophisticated hourly analysis to project the energy needs for Princeton’s new construction through an entire year.

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