Gas utility cancels networked geothermal pilot in Lowell

National Grid has canceled a major geothermal heating project in Lowell.

The decision is a blow for environmentalists, who hope geothermal networks will help Massachusetts meet its ambitious climate goals quickly and equitably.

Kyle Murray, Massachusetts program director at the nonprofit Acadia Center, said that while it’s “disappointing” that National Grid pulled the plug on the Lowell project, he doesn’t think the whole model of utility-led networked geothermal is doomed.

“Part of the reason the commonwealth is currently pursuing them as pilot projects is exactly so that we can pace progress accordingly and learn lessons,” he said. “Doing new and innovative things is hard and things don’t always go smoothly.”

To read the full article from wbur, click here.