At Christman, innovation starts in the field. We led the effort to bring a bold, first-of-its-kind energy solution to life for the DTMB Public Health & Environmental Science Lab: a geothermal system integrated with underground ice-storage. By coordinating partners, sequencing complex earthwork, and overseeing deep-bore drilling and tank installation, we helped turn an ambitious idea into a high-performance system that will serve the state for decades.
Located on a 116-acre site, the project called for both technical skill and long-term vision. Our team installed 285 geothermal bores that reached 660 feet into the earth, paired with 72 underground ice-storage tanks. Together, these systems work as a high-performance energy solution that reduces environmental impact and strengthens the building’s resiliency. Placing the ice-storage tanks underground was intentional. It kept the site clean and functional, protected the tanks, and made long-term maintenance simpler. This kind of thoughtful planning reflects our commitment to delivering solutions that look ahead, not just solutions that work for today.
This geothermal and ice-storage system required more than engineering expertise. It demanded a collaborative mindset that aligned performance, cost, and longevity. By combining the natural stability of the earth with the efficiency of thermal energy storage, the new lab can store and reuse energy in smarter ways. That means lower operational costs, greater resilience, and a smaller carbon footprint. This is innovation with purpose. At Christman, integrity guides our decisions and relationships, and our work on the DTMB Lab aligns directly with the mission of the client and the long-term good of the public.
The DTMB Public Health & Environmental Science Lab stands as a model for what sustainable, high-performance construction can achieve. As energy regulations evolve and organizations look for smarter, more resilient systems, integrated solutions like this will become even more valuable. We are proud to help lead that future by bringing bold ideas to life in projects that will serve communities for generations.