Reimagining School HVAC: Geothermal Progress at Rush City High School
- Owens Commercial Service Tech
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
At Owens Companies, we’re proud to be leading the way in sustainable building solutions, and our latest project at Rush City High School is a perfect example of what innovation and partnership can accomplish.
In collaboration with Darcy Solutions and utilizing technology developed by the University of Minnesota, we are installing a Darcy Groundwater-Based Geothermal System—a revolutionary and efficient alternative to traditional HVAC infrastructure. The project also includes a full mechanical upgrade to better serve the needs of the school, staff, and students for years to come.
Project Scope:
The Rush City High School mechanical overhaul includes:
Replacement of 44 Water Source Heat Pumps
Installation of a new Aerco Benchmark Condensing Boiler Plant
Implementation of a Darcy Groundwater-Based Geothermal System
A fully integrated automation system for long-term efficiency
Construction Progress (as of July):
We’re making excellent progress, with several major milestones already achieved:
The Darcy geothermal well is drilled to 150 feet, with a final target of 250 feet
Over 30 heat pumps have been installed, awaiting piping
Mechanical room tie-ins and pump installations are complete
All makeup air units (MUAs) have been removed; we're waiting for concrete curing before setting the new units
A 200-ft trench has been dug to prepare for natural gas line installation, set to occur in the next two weeks
Why This Project Matters:
By introducing geothermal energy into a K–12 environment, we’re helping reduce carbon emissions, cut long-term energy costs, and create a more sustainable learning space. The Darcy system stands out for its minimal environmental impact and groundbreaking efficiency, even compared to traditional geothermal systems.
“This project exemplifies Owens’ commitment to combining next-gen innovation with trusted expertise in HVAC systems,” said a member of the Owens project team. “We’re not just upgrading equipment—we’re redefining what sustainable building looks like in education.”
Learn More:
Stay tuned for future updates as we bring this innovative system online!
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