When complete in late 2025, the all-electric 1 Java Street development in Brooklyn, New York, will be the largest residential project in the state to use a geothermal heat exchange system to provide part of its power, according to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.
New York-based real estate investor and developer Lendlease has received a $4 million grant from the NYSERDA to construct the system across the 2.6-acre development site. The vertical closed loop system will incorporate 320 boreholes across the site, as well as underground pipes that circulate a water solution to be heated or cooled by the earth, depending on the time of year.
Once the geothermal system is finished, it will provide all of the property’s space heating, water heating and cooling. It is projected to reduce annual carbon emissions from heating and cooling by 53% compared with traditional power systems, with no further system access or maintenance required.
The project is expected to meet or exceed New York’s decarbonization legislation, Local Law 97, as well as Lendlease’s own Mission Zero, an initiative to reach absolute zero carbon in its operations by 2040. It will also target LEED Gold, Fitwel and Waterfront Edge Design Guidelines certification.
“1 Java Street presents us with the opportunity to establish a pioneering model for geothermal energy – aligning with New York’s ambitious climate goals, as well as our global targets of absolute zero carbon by 2040,” said Scott Walsh, project director, New York development for Lendlease. “Our decision to use geothermal was driven not only by the environmental benefits and cost savings, but also enhanced marketability upon completion.”
The 1 Java Street development will include five interconnected buildings, including 37-story and 20-story towers, with a total of 834 residential units across the whole site. Thirty percent of its units have been designated as affordable housing.
The property will also include 13,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and an 18,000-square-foot waterfront that connects to the India Street Pier, served by the East River Ferry for transit to Manhattan.
