From Dylan Anderson, Steamboat Pilot and Today
While more than double the cost to install over other options, incentives could bring a return on investment in as little as five years
The Yampa Valley Housing Authority Board decided on Thursday, Feb. 9, that the Brown Ranch will use a ground source heating system — a key early decision in planning for the development that could deliver its first units by the end of 2026.
The system was chosen in a unanimous vote of the board and follows the recommendation passed along from engineering consultants that have been studying the 2,300 unit development’s energy plan for several months.
While more expensive up front, the geothermal system could save millions in energy costs for future Brown Ranch residents. With a flood of potential government incentives for the eco-friendly system, it may also be the cheapest to install.
