Vicinity Energy owns and operates an existing centralized steam distribution system in Boston, Massachusetts. The Vicinity Boston-Cambridge District Energy System provides heating, sterilization, and process heating to over 230 facilities.
In 2021, Vicinity Energy performed Preliminary Engineering (Utility Routing Study) to evaluate feasibility and options to extend the existing steam system to proposed developments in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood. The Study evaluated connection and routing options (Boylston/Ipswitch/Lansdowne vs. Newbury/Brookline), potential loads and sizing, potential risks / mitigations and cost estimating.
YearDesign: 2023; Construction: 2024
LocationBoston, Massachusetts
ServicesDistrict Energy, Thermal & Electrical Utilities
The Project extended an 18-inch underground steam main approximately 4,000 linear feet from Vicinity’s existing steam district into the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood in Boston, MA. The steam extension will serve a number of new building developments in the Fenway area, including Vicinity’s first eSteamTM customer, which will assist the development in becoming one of Boston’s first carbon-neutral buildings.
Vicinity began delivering carbon-free eSteamTM in Fenway in 2024, hoping to pave the way for more building owners and property managers to leverage eSteamTM for rapid building decarbonization to combat climate change and meet sustainability goals.
RMF completed the initial feasibility study and cost estimating before proceeding into complete design, permitting and construction administration. The project includes an aerial crossing of the Muddy River, coordination with the Boston Red Sox / Fenway Park, and received approval from the Boston Public Improvement Commission.
The total Fenway-Kenmore development has an anticipated steam load of 206,000 lbs/hr and 130 PSIG.
Highlights
4,000 LF of 18-Inch Underground Steam Main
206,000 LB/HR Anticipated Steam Load
130 PSIG Steam Distribution
Muddy River Aerial Crossing
District Steam System Extension into Fenway-Kenmore Neighborhood
Fenway Park Coordination & Public Improvement Commission Approval