In searching for cooling options for Cornell University, a team of New York engineers turned to the "cold, deep water of Cayuga Lake." The use of lake source cooling eliminated the use of refrigerant based chillers, reducing energy use by 86%. It also saves more than 20 million kWh/year.

"Use of lake source cooling provides a passive and technologically simple cooling option for Cornell University, using a natural, non-polluting and renewable resource," W.S. "Lanny" Joyce, the project manager, said. "It is designed and operated with great care to protect the lake."

The 20,000-ton capacity chilled water district cooling system project is one of two projects that will be awarded a first-place American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Technology Award during the Society's 2002 Winter Meeting held Jan. 12-16 in Atlantic City, NJ.

The ASHRAE Technology Awards recognize outstanding achievements by members who have successfully applied innovative building design in the areas of occupant comfort, indoor air quality and energy conservation.

Their designs incorporate ASHRAE standards for effective energy management and indoor air quality. Performance is proven through one year's actual, verifiable operating data.