The objective of this project is to develop a strategic design framework for thermal energy networks (TENs) supporting phased implementation and scalability across Department of War (DoW) installations. Building on prior feasibility studies, this work will deliver 10–15% schematic designs guiding the deployment of resilient and cost-effective TENs. This framework addresses: 

• Scalability: Support modular expansion from pilot systems to campus-wide networks with minimal redesign.
• Performance Optimization: Integrate site-specific energy sources and sinks with balancing control strategies and hybridization for reliable, efficient operation, accounting for future demand projections.
• Engineering Compatibility: Ensure seamless integration with existing building systems by applying standardized energy transfer station (ETS) configurations and targeted retrofit strategies.
• Cost-Efficiency: Reduce costs through design standardization, investment, and third-party delivery models.
• Resilience: Embed redundancy, islanding, and cyber-secure control strategies under grid disruptions. 

This project advances TEN design by formalizing a methodology that transforms feasibility-level findings into 10–15% schematic design packages for phased deployment across DoW installations. Using a hybrid top-down and bottom-up framework, the top-down layer aligns with DoW-wide goals such as energy resilience, demand projections, and phased infrastructure buildouts. The bottom-up layer focuses on detailed analysis of critical subsystems—including thermal plants, ETS, and energy exchange points—through validation of system sizing, control strategies, building compatibility, and preliminary costing. Direct engagement with installation stakeholders ensures the design reflects site-specific operational requirements, infrastructure constraints, and resilience priorities. This project adapts established practices and standards for TEN design (American National Standards Institute/Canadian Standards Association/International Ground Source Heat Pump AssociationC448:25; American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) into a DoW-specific schematic design workflow, supported by standardized design packets and implementation guidance. It bridges the gap between planning and deployment, supporting DoW’s infrastructure modernization and mission readiness goals. 

With growing interest in deploying geothermal systems and TEN across DoW installations, there is a need for a strategic design framework enabling phased implementation and scalability. This project establishes a consistent and cost-effective schematic design process tailored to DoW’s operational demands. By formalizing and standardizing the TEN schematic design methodology, the project strengthens early-stage planning, reduces technical and financial uncertainty, and supports informed investment decisions. The framework delivers repeatable design guidance, cost estimates, and system layouts, empowering stakeholders to evaluate trade-offs, assess readiness, and determine feasibility for detailed design and implementation. Ultimately, this work enables DoW to advance TEN demonstration projects, accelerating the deployment of resilient and secure energy infrastructure across installations. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2028)