Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel project has been announced as a finalist of the Premier’s Sustainability Awards, recognising outstanding achievements in sustainability across the state.
The Metro Tunnel Project undertook a world-first pilot trial using geothermal technology to convert existing infrastructure foundations into renewable thermal energy. In layman’s terms, the project involved designing and installing three soldier piles or foundation posts to a retaining wall in State Library Station. Extensive data was then collected and analysed to discern
the outcome.
First and foremost, would it work for geothermal energy production? Then, would it work without negatively impacting the engineering and staged construction requirements of concrete pouring and required steel density? Finally, would it be cost effective?
The answers to all three questions were a resounding yes. In fact, the trial gave confidence for similar future-built environment applications, showing that geothermal renewable energy holds potential to meet energy demands of our built environment.
As a partnership between Rail Projects Victoria, the Metro Tunnel Project packages: Early Works, John Holland (MTEW) and Tunnels and Stations, Cross Yarra Partnership D&C, and the University of Melbourne, the trial also showcased how collaboration between government, academia, and the construction industry can lead to renewable energy innovation in real-life projects.
The scientific results of this pilot are now published and may support dramatic change in the way we use our infrastructure (and foundations) as a thermal battery for renewable energy capture and use in the built environment.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the prestigious Premier’s Sustainability Awards program – one that has continued to grow and reflect the outstanding efforts towards sustainability that are happening throughout Victoria across industry, business, and community.
Sustainability Victoria’s Interim CEO Matt Genever said the awards were an important opportunity to recognise the individual Victorians, community groups, councils and businesses who are making a positive impact on the world around us.
“By recognising the innovative work being done in sustainability, we aim to inspire others so that together we can progress faster towards our goal of a climate-resilient, circular economy with net zero emissions.
“Our finalists are making significant contributions to our state’s circular economy transformation, a net zero-emission future for Victoria.
“The standard of entrants this year was exceptional, and it was pleasing to see that there are many individuals, communities and organisations across Victoria that are committed to encouraging long-term sustainability.”