Pinewood Forrest, a new, innovative urban community in Fayetteville, Georgia, announced plans to become the first large-scale fully geothermal community in the country. Every single-family home and townhome in the community, which is currently under construction, is being outfitted with a geothermal heat pump system in place of a traditional HVAC system. Geothermal power uses the consistent temperature just below the Earth’s surface to heat and cool homes and is more efficient, more affordable, quieter and lasts longer than any other system. Pinewood Forrest recently released an informative video outlining the benefits of geothermal.

Geothermal is a clean, renewable energy source generated and stored in the Earth. To access this energy, a hole is drilled to reach the level where there is a consistent underground temperature of approximately 58 degrees year-round. Geothermal underground heat pump systems take advantage of this stable temperature to more efficiently heat and cool homes compared to traditional HVAC systems, which are above ground and exposed to more variable and extreme conditions. Geothermal systems offer up to 70 percent energy cost savings – that’s more than $200 off a $300 electric bill – and are more durable and long lasting, with underground components potentially lasting more than 50 years compared to around 12 years with traditional systems.

“Our vision for this community includes providing residents with the most advanced technologies and systems available to make this a truly remarkable place to live. Geothermal energy is the smartest, most effective way to heat and cool a home and we are delighted to bring this innovative, future-proof solution to Pinewood Forrest,” says Rob Parker, President, Pinewood Forrest. “The collective power of immediate and meaningful cost savings paired with the undeniable environmental benefits delivers a smarter, healthier, more livable community to our residents now and gives them confidence and peace of mind for the future.”

Pinewood Forrest, LLC is overseeing the installation and management of the geothermal systems for all residential units at the sustainably designed development, which will include around 700 single-family homes and townhomes. Construction started on homes in April 2017, and the first phase will be delivered and occupied by year-end. Most costs for the systems are factored into residents’ mortgage payments.

In addition to environmental benefits, geothermal systems provide significant aesthetic advantages. Because there are no outdoor compressor units and the underground systems are virtually silent, residents can relax and enjoy inspiration from the natural environment and surroundings within Pinewood Forrest and time with family and friends without the distraction of noise or unsightly industrial equipment. Pinewood Forrest is connected by 15 miles of pedestrian pathways spread over 118 acres of public green space with gardens, gathering places and parks.

Pinewood Forrest will comprise 1,300 residences once complete, including 600 multi-family units.