Seattle City Council has granted conceptual approval for a below-grade thermal energy exchange system under Boren Avenue North, north of Denny Way, as part of the development at 121 Boren Avenue North. The system will capture waste heat and redistribute it between the buildings, supporting a centralized energy plant that provides heating and cooling for 2,500 residential units and 750,000 square feet of commercial space. The infrastructure will reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency by integrating with an existing private utility tunnel under John Street. The approval is a preliminary step before final permitting, with additional engineering and utility reviews required before construction can proceed.
This energy exchange system enhances sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and energy waste. The project aligns with Seattle's climate goals by improving building efficiency and reducing reliance on traditional heating and cooling methods.