Reduce Carbon Footprint from PGCPS Buildings

The newly constructed William Wirt Middle School is an example of how Prince George’s County Public Schools prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability. William Wirt Middle School has achieved Priority 2-Mitigation Action item M2 of the CCAP, by completely eliminating fossil fuels from its heating and cooling system.

The old school's two natural gas-fired boilers have been replaced with a state-of-the-art geothermal system. Geothermal technology harnesses the stable temperatures of the earth to provide both heating and cooling, offering significant advantages over traditional boiler and chiller combinations. Geothermal systems require minimal maintenance and reduce reliance on mechanical equipment, resulting in lower operating costs and a smaller environmental footprint.

In addition to its geothermal heating and cooling, William Wirt Middle School is equipped with roof-mounted solar arrays. These arrays will harness clean solar energy, further reducing the school's dependence on fossil fuels. The sustainable school design provides a healthy and comfortable learning environment but also demonstrates our commitment to a sustainable future for generations to come.