Lendlease
Lendlease and joint venture partner Aware Super has acquired $4 million in support from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to build a geoexchange system at 1 Java Street in Brooklyn. Based on square footage, building height, 834 residential units, and 320 boreholes, NYSERDA says the all-electric property will be the largest residential project in New York to use a geothermal heat exchange system.
The project will encompass five interconnected buildings including 37-story and 20-story towers on a 2.6-acre site. “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,” says 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 project, which has received support from local elected officials and the North Brooklyn Neighbors community planning organization, included a feasibility study, design work and the current installation of a community heat pump system, known as a thermal energy network. Its funding was obtained through a competitive grant from NYSERDA’s Community Heat Pump Systems Pilot Program.
“Community thermal networks are an important step in scaling building electrification and helping more residents benefit from clean energy infrastructure that can lead to long-term energy savings,” says Donovan Gordon, NYSERDA director of clean heating and cooling. “Our support for this innovative project using the latest in clean heating and cooling technology will help us meet New York State’s climate and clean energy goals while reducing emissions in Brooklyn.”
The on-site geothermal system will reduce annual carbon emissions from heating and cooling by 53%, Lendlease reports. Both the geothermal and all-electric systems will meet or exceed Local Law 97, New York’s decarbonization legislation, and align with Lendlease’s Mission Zero initiative to reach absolute zero carbon by 2040. The project will also target LEED Gold, Fitwell, and Waterfront Edge Design Guidelines certification.
Aiming for completion in late 2025, 30% of residential units will be designated as affordable housing under the Affordable New York Housing Program. Over 13,000 feet of ground floor space will be used for retail and a reimagined 18,000-square-foot public waterfront esplanade will connect the property to the India Street Pier that is served by the East River Ferry.
As the sixth project developed by and operated as part of the Aware Super and Lendlease joint venture Americas multifamily portfolio, Aware Super senior portfolio manager of property Alek Misev says, “We’re excited to celebrate the geothermal project that 1 Java Street is delivering for our property portfolio. The sustainable benefits to be generated from New York City’s largest residential geothermal project will not only demand less energy from the grid at peak times, but also reduce carbon emissions, both of which are expected to uplift the value of this asset.”