A district energy system heats and/or cools multiple buildings through one central energy plant, eliminating the need for boilers in each individual building. This centralized heating and cooling allows for substantial increases in energy efficiency and expands options for greener fuel sources.

District energy is a key strategy in helping achieve our climate protection and energy conservation goals.  The City has recently completed a study to evaluate the neighborhoods in Seattle where district energy is likely to be most promising, and to identify policies that could help advance district energy in Seattle. Based on the key findings and recommendations of the study, the City is pursuing a strategy to expand district energy on First Hill.

Study documents include:

• Pre-Feasibility Analysis
• District Energy Recommendations

First Hill Strategic Partnership: First Hill presents the greatest near-term opportunity for expanding district energy because of the opportunity created by the Seattle Housing Authority’s planned redevelopment of Yesler Terrace, combined with large existing heat loads from three hospitals and the potential to capture additional heat load in surrounding areas. The City will explore opportunities for partnership with a new district energy provider on First Hill, and is currently selecting a district energy utility partner to engage in this process.

For more information on OSE's district energy work, contact Christie Baumel, (206) 233-7173.

District energy illustration courtesy of International District Energy Association.