Geothermal Systems at Princeton University

Course Description

Edward “Ted” Borer, Borer Energy Engineering, LLC, retired Director of Energy Plants at Princeton University, presents a case study of Princeton’s prior, current, and future energy infrastructure plans and the steps taken to realize significant decarbonization, including steam generation, chilled water production, combined heat and power and co-generation, microgrids, thermal storage, geothermal, and geoexchange.

Recorded March 20, 2025.

Learning Objectives:

• Apply Princeton University’s strategic decarbonization infrastructure master plan for its campus as a case study.
• Explain the basics, importance, and advantages of thermal energy storage.
• Identify necessary planning considerations and steps for minimizing a campus carbonization footprint.
• Apply Princeton University’s approaches to decarbonization, such as chilled water, energy storage, and cogeneration, to other higher education campuses and large energy users.

About the Instructor:

Ted Borer: Edward “Ted” Borer, PE, is the President of Borer Energy Engineering, LLC and retired Energy Plant Director for Princeton University and is actively involved in campus energy and carbon emissions reduction efforts and strategic planning. He has 39 years of experience in the power industry, starting in the nuclear industry in the early 1980s. He is a registered professional engineer and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering as well as the CEM and LEED-AP certifications. He has held leadership roles in the International District Energy Association and New Jersey Higher Education Partnership for Sustainability. He has provided briefings for members of the US Senate and FERC commissioners. He is a founding member of the Microgrid Resources Coalition. He speaks regularly on energy topics and has published numerous articles in trade magazines and peer-reviewed journals as well as a book chapter on combined heat and power (CHP). Ted is the founder and principal of Borer Energy Engineering, LLC, a consulting firm offering training and operations-based guidance to the energy industry.

Course Outline

• University’s Commitment to Carbon Neutrality

• Constraints and Aging Infrastructure

• Energy Demands

• Systems: Combined Heat & Power, Cogeneration, GE LM-1600 Gas Turbine, Chilled Water, Thermal Storage

• Campus Emissions

• Major Areas for Decarbonization

• Geothermal

• Exam

• Certificate: 0.5 American Institute of Architects credits awarded on completion