Project Specifics

PRC Holdings, LLC (PRC) engaged Geosyntec to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the development of a data center and associated facilities on inactive coal mine areas in Boone County, West Virginia. The study focused on the potential use of underground mine pools for sustainable cooling via ground source heat pump (GSHP) technology. Partnering with McKinstry, Geosyntec assessed hydrogeologic conditions, utility service availability, and mine pool water flow rates. The project aimed to find whether an open-loop GSHP system could provide sustainable cooling for data centers on inactive coal mine sites. Key objectives were to determine the viability of an open-loop GSHP system, assess mine pool water availability and management, evaluate fiber and electric power services required for data center operations, and collect water flow data to support system design.

Geosyntec Scope of Services

The project spanned multiple phases from initial hydrogeologic investigation to technical assessments of utility services and mine pool monitoring. Geosyntec’s scope of services encompassed a series of targeted tasks to assess project feasibility, including a preliminary hydrogeologic study, thermal and hydraulic modeling, and evaluation of utility requirements for data center development.

The team conducted desktop research and site reconnaissance and developed hydrogeological models to establish water-use and permitting needs. Following this, they performed a detailed analysis of mine pool conditions and wellfield configurations. Utility service requirements for power and fiber were defined, and provider options were researched with formal service requests and reporting on costs and timelines. Geosyntec, alongside Gaddy Engineering and Blackhawk Mining, installed and monitored flow meters on mine pool discharge pipes, collecting data to quantify water availability for GSHP cooling capacity analysis. Throughout all phases, Geosyntec’s project management, stakeholder communications, and progress reporting provided timely project delivery and alignment with client objectives.

Notable Accomplishments

Geosyntec provided critical insights into the technical, regulatory, and logistical requirements for developing a data center using GSHP technology on inactive coal mine sites. The multiphase approach allowed for thorough evaluation of mine pool resources, utility infrastructure, and site-specific conditions. With empirical data supporting the viability of the GSHP system and preliminary utility assessments in hand, PRC is well-positioned to advance project planning and make informed decisions regarding future development. Geosyntec remains committed to supporting PRC as the project progresses to subsequent phases.

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