Project: ASR As Cooling Water Source

Redmond, Washington

GSI worked with a confidential client to evaluate the feasibility of using a small-scale ASR system to provide a reliable source of emergency cooling water for up to 50 days at a computer data facility after a major seismic event. ASR was evaluated because local groundwater and surface water were fully appropriated, and it was unlikely that a suitable existing water right would be available for purchase and transfer. Another advantage of ASR is that it would provide a peaking water source, thereby providing relief to the regional water supply and reducing overall water purchase costs for the facility on an annual basis.

GSI evaluated the reliability of ASR well technology after large-magnitude earthquakes and completed a preliminary hydrogeologic feasibility study to identify potential target aquifers and potential limiting constraints. In addition, GSI initiated discussions with the Washington Department of Ecology and with local water purveyors to assess potential permitting and technical issues, as well as to secure a commitment for injection source water. The conclusion of the study was that a small-scale ASR system was technically feasible and could be engineered to be a reliable peaking and emergency source of water at the proposed facility site. Based on the results of the feasibility study, a pilot testing program was developed. However, the data facility was not built and the project was ultimately cancelled.