Case Study: How GES Helps Schools Save Energy by Installing Geothermal Systems

Geothermal systems help schools save energy, reduce long-term costs, and improve the learning environment. GES is making that transformation possible across the country. In this case study, we highlight how GES helped Washington Public Schools in Oklahoma navigate budget challenges, improve energy efficiency, and create better classroom spaces by switching from traditional HVAC to geothermal technology.

Washington Public Schools passed a bond in 2021 to expand and upgrade its facilities. But just as the project began, the COVID-19 pandemic sent construction costs soaring. Superintendent Chris Reynolds explained, “The bond had already been passed, so the dollars were fixed. We were going to be facing some deficits and having to make choices about changing our building materials, changing the quality of the project, and reducing specific portions of the project.”

GES stepped in at a critical moment with a geothermal solution that helped the district recover over $700,000 in projected costs while keeping key elements of the school project, including classrooms and a playground, intact. This is how GES helps schools save energy and stretch limited budgets further through innovative, sustainable infrastructure.

What Challenges Did Washington Public Schools Face?

Like many school districts, Washington Public Schools encountered sudden budget gaps caused by pandemic-era inflation. Construction materials and labor costs rose dramatically, forcing tough decisions about what to cut or scale back. “We were pulling pieces, significant pieces such as playground structures, a couple classrooms out of the actual bond,” Reynolds shared.

With limited funds and rising costs, the district was in danger of delivering a project that fell short of what voters had approved. That’s when GES proposed a switch to geothermal HVAC systems—not only to improve energy performance, but also to unlock immediate cost savings.

“They came to us and said, ‘We can give you this better system, and we can also help you on the financing part of this,’” Reynolds said. The result? “We were able to pull out about $700,000 to $800,000 worth of costs out of the project by transferring from traditional units into geothermal units.”

How Did GES Provide a Smart, Energy-Saving Solution?

GES helped the district identify geothermal as a long-term energy solution with short-term financial advantages. Unlike conventional HVAC, geothermal systems use the Earth’s stable underground temperature to heat and cool buildings. This dramatically reduces electricity usage, saving schools up to 70 percent on heating and up to 50 percent on cooling.

The switch to geothermal helped offset rising costs in other project areas. The district restored the full project scope instead of scaling back or removing key features. “It went from a situation where we were going to have to cut, to being able to make that bond whole again,” Reynolds said.

That included saving a planned playground that had been on the chopping block. “To walk out and see kids play on a playground that wasn’t going to be there because we had to make budget cuts—that just means so much,” he added.

What Long-Term Benefits Did the District Gain?

GES didn’t just install a system—they provided long-term value. Geothermal systems are known for their reliability, quiet operation, and low maintenance. Schools can expect fewer breakdowns and lower repair costs with fewer moving parts and no outdoor condenser units exposed to the elements.

Reynolds noticed the difference right away. “Very rarely do I get called to a classroom or hear radio calls for our maintenance people to report to buildings that have geothermal in them,” he said. “It just simply works.”

In Oklahoma’s unpredictable climate, geothermal systems perform better than conventional HVAC. “A typical conventional system loves life at 60 degrees, and as the temperature rises or falls, its efficiency goes down. Geothermal every day is the perfect day because it’s using ground source temperature, which is 60-some-odd degrees here in Oklahoma,” Reynolds explained.

How Did Geothermal Improve the Learning Environment?

GES also helped the district improve the classroom experience for students and teachers. Geothermal systems provide consistent, even temperatures and better air quality—key factors in creating a focused, comfortable learning environment.

“A very happy teacher is what you want,” Reynolds noted. “Teachers who are in a climate zone that’s comfortable for them and their students are very happy.”

Many of the district’s geothermal classrooms include zoned temperature controls, allowing teachers to adjust heating or cooling as needed. “One of the main benefits for the teachers is they have control of their classroom heat and air,” he said. “A lot of the systems right now are dual zoned.”

Why Do Schools Trust GES?

GES has earned the trust of school leaders by delivering innovative solutions, honest guidance, and reliable service. From early planning to post-installation support, they work alongside districts to find energy strategies that fit real-world budgets and facility needs.

“They always come right out. They always take care of us,” Reynolds said. “What excites me the most is I feel confident that everything we do is full of integrity.”

GES also helps schools use financing tools and incentives, making geothermal upgrades more accessible, even for districts with tight budgets or complex projects.

For school leaders still deciding whether to explore geothermal options, Reynolds offers this advice: “Take that call. Answer that email. Because I think you’ll find that it’s going to be a great benefit to you, and we value them as partners.”

How Can GES Help Your School Save Energy with Geothermal?

Washington Public Schools’ experience shows how GES helps schools save energy, protect their budgets, and deliver better buildings for students and staff. Through innovative geothermal technology and strategic support, schools don’t have to choose between performance and affordability.

Whether designing a new facility or upgrading an older building, geothermal energy is the key to long-term savings, better learning environments, and greater sustainability.

Are you interested in exploring geothermal solutions for your school? Contact GES today to schedule a consultation or request a custom quote. Let’s build a smarter, more efficient future together.

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