PGW SELECTS GEOTHERMAL FEASIBILITY STUDY CONTRACTOR FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PHILADELPHIA PROJECT

Alderson Engineering, of Southampton, PA, will conduct a feasibility study for a closed-loop geothermal system at John F. McCloskey Elementary.

Philadelphia, Pa — Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) has selected Alderson Engineering to conduct a geothermal site survey and feasibility study in conjunction with the School District of Philadelphia (SDP). 

“We are eager to work with the School District of Philadelphia, and Alderson Engineering to explore ways to reduce emissions, offer cost-saving energy efficient options for customers, and sustain jobs,” said Seth Shapiro, PGW President and Chief Executive Officer. 

“This kind of partnership could become a model for future opportunities as the company expands its clean energy portfolio while also delivering on Mayor Parker’s clean and green vision of improving the quality of life of Philadelphians,” he said.

As announced in March of this year, the study will assess the viability of implementing a closed-loop geothermal system capable of supporting multiple heat pumps for heating and cooling at John F. McCloskey Elementary School (8500 Pickering Ave., Philadelphia) and the adjacent Dorothy Emanuel Recreation Center (8500 Provident Rd., Philadelphia). 

Alderson Engineering, based in Southampton, PA is a full-service Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing and Fire Protection (MEP/FP) consulting engineering firm that has served clients across 20+ states for more than 30 years.

“We are excited to see prominent local energy providers like PGW looking to the future and becoming leaders in exploring geothermal opportunities to provide non-traditional energy services,” said Neal Babcock, Principal, Alderson Engineering. “We are looking forward to this collaborative project to continue to enhance the community.” 

PGW’s collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia supports the District’s GreenFutures Plan to provide students and staff with a well-resourced, safe, healthy, clean, and comfortable learning and working environment. The study will consider factors such as geological conditions, available space for underground bore installations, and the potential design for a decentralized geothermal unit with pumping capabilities. 

“We’re excited to partner with Philadelphia Gas Works to explore the feasibility of innovative energy solutions to provide cost-savings to our District and reduce our environmental footprint,” said Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D., superintendent for the School District of Philadelphia. “As we become the fastest improving, large urban school district in the nation, delivering efficient, high-quality, cost-effective operations is a priority to support accelerating academic achievement.” 

PGW issued a Request for Proposals on March 17, 2025, and received applications through April 15, 2025. All were carefully reviewed before Alderson was selected.