DURHAM, N.H. – The University of New Hampshire’s Thermal Energy Storage Tank (TES) has been honored by Engineering News-Record (ENR) in its annual Regional Best Project Awards with an Award of Merit. The project received the award in the Energy/Industrial category for the New England region, which was recently featured in ENR’s November issue.

Delivered by Consigli Construction Co., Inc. and its energy division, Arch Energy, the 1.4-million-gallon TES tank is an innovative campus solution that is roughly equivalent to a 15,000-kWh battery, delivers long-term energy efficiency for UNH. Reflecting a $10.3 million investment by the University, the new TES tank was designed to produce chilled water during off-peak hours to significantly lower campus energy costs and reduce environmental impact. The tank, and its interconnection to the existing plant, allows for a minimum of 10,400 ton-hours of stored chilled water to be released as thermal energy during peak hours.

Using a design-build approach with DN Tanks, Consigli and its design partners ensured successful pre-construction and construction phases by maximizing client and project team collaboration and bolstering efficiency throughout the life of the project. The project team overcame significant challenges, including confined space and high-angle work hazards inside the 47-foot-tall, 80-foot-diameter tank. Enhanced fall protection protocols were implemented, and the team partnered with the local fire department for a high-angle rescue training exercise. When traditional gear proved unsuitable, the team donated construction-grade fall protection and rigging equipment, strengthening community safety and partnerships.

The TES Tank serves as a model for higher education institutions pursuing ambitious decarbonization planning and is a key feature of UNH’s own climate action plan, WildCAP, which aims to cut the university’s greenhouse gas emissions by 80% in 2050 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2100.

In addition to this award, Consigli also received the top project award for New England in the Higher Education/Research category for The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Brigham, MIT and Harvard, as well as several other New York regional awards.

Project teams recognized by ENR’s panel of judges were evaluated on their ability to overcome challenges, contribute to industry innovation and benefit the community, as well as overall excellence in design, construction and safety execution.

Read more about the project in ENR here.

Learn more about the ENR New England Regional Best Projects Awards here.