The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has issued a release announcing the use of a CO2 refrigerant heat pump system, which will shift 98% percent of the centers heating use from fossil fuel to salt water. “This project reflects the core mission of the Alaska SeaLife Center “to generate and share scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine eco-systems,” said Darryl Schaefermeyer, ASLC Special Projects Director. “It illustrates the broad and tangible ways in which our day to day work can contribute to the long term health and sustainability of the City of Seward, the State of Alaska and the global community.” The system was in development for over seven years, and after completing two phases, water is pumped in from Resurrection Bay in order to heat the 120,000 square foot building. The system was completed by YourCleanEnergy, LLC, an Alaskan consultant and design firm, and utilizes a two phase system. This system will not only reduce carbon footprints, but is very cost efficient. The Center’s heat pump systems are estimated to save as much as $15,000 per month, with a yearly carbon emissions reduction of 1.24 million pounds per year, in comparison to the original conventional boilers. This is the first installation of a CO2 refrigerant in the United States that can replace oil or conventional boilers in heating systems. Sadly, most of us can’t jump on board with this set-up, since it requires a large volume of accesible salt water and a complex operating system. MORE