In brief
Boise has turned to its natural hot springs for heating, making it the largest city-operated geothermal system in the U.S. Nearly 500 buildings, including schools and a YMCA, benefit from this eco-friendly energy source.
In the heart of Idaho, Boise is using its natural hot springs for a groundbreaking geothermal heating system! This innovative approach heats around 500 buildings—including homes, hospitals, and even sidewalks—using hot water drawn from deep aquifers. With temperatures reaching around 170 degrees Fahrenheit (77 degrees Celsius), this clean energy method keeps this vibrant city warm during chilly winters. The water is pumped from wells in the nearby foothills, pumped through pipes into buildings, and then returned to the aquifer for reheating. As the only U.S. statehouse to rely on geothermal heat, Boise not only shows off its natural resources but also sets an example for sustainable urban energy solutions!
