Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) marked the start of its academic year on Saturday with the launch of Manitoba’s first district geothermal energy system at a post-secondary institution. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at Poettcker Hall, the first campus building to connect to the new system. University leaders, government representatives, alumni, and community members attended the event. “As we welcome our students and community back to campus, I am proud to showcase this important milestone in our efforts to build a more sustainable future,” said CMU president Cheryl Pauls. “Poettcker Hall is just the first of many buildings we will connect to the district geothermal system on our journey to a net zero campus.” Pauls thanked donors, funders, staff, and the construction and design team for helping bring the project to completion. District geothermal systems capture the steady temperature underground to provide year-round heating, cooling and hot water. They are more efficient than single-building systems because energy can be shifted between multiple facilities with different needs. The system was designed by GEOptimize, a Winnipeg-based firm. “Geothermal eliminates climate pollution and will save CMU significant dollars and reduce its carbon footprint for decades to come,” said GEOptimize president Ed Lohrenz. “It is exciting to see this approach gaining momentum here in Manitoba.” The Manitoba government supported the project with $351,000 in funding through the Merit-based Low Carbon Economy Fund, a joint program with the federal government. Saturday’s celebration included remarks from local MLA Carla Compton, CMU officials and alumni, followed by tours of the system and Poettcker Hall.