The
Geoscience Australia (GA) Building is a purpose built geological research
facility situated in Canberra.
The facility consists of general office and open plan accommodation, laboratories,
public and educational displays, and special storage facilities for its vast
collection of scientific data, rock, mineral and core samples.
The
building incorporates a number of Ecological Sustainable Development (ESD)
design principles. One of the key ESD features is the Geothermal Heat Pump
system used for the office accommodation.
The system offers the following advantages:
-
reduced energy requirement;
-
lower capital cost;
-
reduced peak energy demand;
-
reduced annual energy consumption;
-
greater 'after-hours' flexibility; and,
-
closed loop system requiring minimal water
treatment
The
geothermal system is meeting all the key performance indicators for achieving energy
efficiency. The building energy use is monitored on 24/7 basis and regular
energy and building conservation audits are conducted. A review of the system
undertaken with Geoexchange Australia
in 2008 (10 Year Performance Review) found a number of post design and
maintenance issues that have been addressed resulting in improved performance. Geoexchange
Australia
continues to provide GA with technical advice and assistance with the
maintenance of the geothermal system and any efficiency issues with design and
operation.
If you
would like to know more about Geoscience Australia, the building and it’s
design features please visit our website: www.ga.gov.au/about-us/our-facilities/our-building.html.
Stephen Read
Property Manager
Corporate Branch
Geoscience Australia
SYSTEM COMPARISON - Geoexchange Vs Conventional |