Duke University Chiller Plant Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage Assessment (2024-2025)

This project team determined the thickness and cost-effectiveness of Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage utilization of rocks beneath three Duke University Chiller Plants. Fractured and porous rocks, essential for ATES, are projected to underlie both Duke University campus and Durham. The team core drilled and geophysically logged 300-meter-deep wells close to the plant evaporation towers. 

Team members studied the characteristics and distributions of the subsurface rocks to determine water storage and retrieval capacity. The team designed hydrogeological studies and models of ATES hot and cold-water storage potential. Hydrogeological studies included tests to determine the bulk and local permeability of subsurface formations, as well as the overall storage capacity. Team members worked to understand the heat transfer in these wells and their underground connections. 

If the thickness of identified rocks extends for meters vertically and laterally, they may have potential for use in ATES cooling and heating at Duke University. Extrapolated to Durham, such findings could influence Durham's development of energy efficient buildings, apartments and houses, especially for communities that suffer disproportionately from weather extremes. The assessments determine fluid-flow characteristics and distribution for air conditioning and heating water storage.

Timing

Fall 2024 – Spring 2025

Team Outputs

Assessment of Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage usage at Duke and in Durham

Community partnerships

Archival exhibit

Data generated for grant proposals

Blog posts, business plan, peer-reviewed publication, website

See earlier related team Duke University Central Campus Geothermal Test (2023-2024).

Image: Duke’s Chiller Plant No. 3, on Anderson St., by Bill Snead/Duke University