As the second in a two-part series "MythBusting Clean Heating & Cooling: The Efficacy of Retrofits," of Sustainable Westchester's podcast "Conversations in Clean Energy," host Radina Valova explores the often thought impossible geothermal retrofit in historical buildings. After you hear how ground source heat pump technology worked so well for these 100+ year old buildings, this technology may rise to the top of your list for upcoming capital improvements.

The examples showcased in this episode include St. Patrick's Cathedral, in Midtown NYC, a building on the historic landmark registry as well as Huguenot Memorial Church in Pelham, NY. 

Host Radina welcomes her guests Eric Smith, founding principal of the New York-based firm Eric J. Smith Architects with over 30 years experience and a member of the Huguenot Church Board of Trustees and Chair of their Building and Grounds committee for 12 years. She is also joined by Jeffrey Murphy, a founding Partner of MBB Architects, his work at St. Patrick’s Cathedral won a 2016 AIA National Honor Award and a 2019 AIA National COTE Award for excellence in sustainability.

These projects stand as successful models for innovation, collaboration, preservation of architectural integrity and the introduction of clean heating technology into historical buildings. The discussion will focus on the efficacy of geothermal retrofitting, historic building preservation, environmental stewardship, comfort, and efficiency. Topics will include planning, financing and development -- positives, challenges and implications.

This episode was produced in collaboration with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), who serves as a catalyst – advancing energy innovation, technology, and investment; transforming New York's economy; and empowering people and businesses to choose clean and efficient energy as part of their everyday lives.