LATEST NEWS from STEN

The Sewer Thermal Energy Network (STEN) recently met with a diverse team of over 20 employees from the New York City School Construction Authority (NYCSCA) to explore the benefits of sewer thermal technology in reducing the carbon footprint and energy costs of the city’s public schools. With 1,596 schools serving over 912,000 students, New York City operates one of the largest public-school systems globally.

Energy Efficiency & Carbon Reduction

Sewer thermal energy systems offer substantial energy savings. These systems use about one-half (½) of the electricity required by standard air-source heat pumps. Wastewater-sourced heat systems also perform well even in extreme temperatures. By leveraging the stable temperature of wastewater, they provide consistent heating and cooling, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Cost Savings & Operational Efficiency

Sewer thermal technology can lower heating and cooling expenses by reducing the demand on traditional HVAC systems, particularly during peak load times. Although exact savings depend on various factors such as building size, climate, and energy rates, successful projects have shown reductions in energy use ranging from 30% to 50%. For a school district the size of New York City’s, even modest efficiency gains could result in substantial cost savings over time, freeing up resources for educational enhancements and facility improvements.

Enhanced Comfort & Scalability

Beyond cost savings, sewer thermal systems improve indoor air quality and provide stable, even heating and cooling. This creates a more comfortable learning environment, which can positively impact student performance. With New York’s extensive sewer network, the technology is scalable, suitable for both new construction and retrofits, helping future-proof school facilities against rising energy costs and stricter emissions regulations.

Leading the Way in Reducing NYC’s Carbon Footprint

Adopting sewer thermal energy would reduce operational costs and showcase NYCSCA’s commitment to innovative, sustainable practices. By embracing this technology, the city’s schools could lead the way in reducing New York’s carbon footprint while enhancing infrastructure. During their meeting, the STEN team shared insights on commercially available products, design considerations, and potential integration strategies, highlighting the path forward for greener, more efficient schools in New York City.

ABOUT STEN:  A Commitment to Sustainability

The Sewer Thermal Energy Network, Inc. is a U.S. based international member-supported organization, dedicated to advocacy, education, information dissemination, capacity building, and networking opportunities for industry leaders, municipalities, and wastewater utilities, and academics. We help communities and businesses discover the potential of unused resources with the utilization of freely available heat contained within a sewer system for heating and cooling of the built environment, from a single building to a whole district.

The Sewer Thermal Energy Network is increasingly prepared to contribute to major improvements in sustainable urban development, leveraging advanced technologies and industry insights to drive the adoption of heat recycling around the world. With each new network member, we are advancing our goal of transforming urban heating and cooling systems, showcasing the power of collaborative innovation in making a tangible environmental impact. 

As a STEN member, you’ll join a group of the most influential professionals in the industry - leaders and decision-makers who are working together to shape the future of sewer heat recovery solutions. Please consider becoming a member of STEN today!