Kickstart Project Summaries
Local Visions. Shared Learnings. Community-Driven Insights.
The Kickstart Massachusetts program supported 12 communities in exploring the social and/or technical feasibility of networked geothermal as a climate–safe alternative to gas. Each community brought its own motivations, building types, engagement approach, — and each made meaningful strides in uncovering what’s possible.
These short project summaries offer a snapshot of each community’s work. They are designed to help others quickly understand:
- What motivated the community to explore networked geothermal
- Which site or neighborhood was scoped and why
- How the team approached community engagement and what partnerships were forged
- What was learned — including any challenges, surprises, or success stories
- Opportunistic thermal sources the community identified (such as wastewater, seawater, or excess heat)
These are living snapshots of early–stage exploration. But they reflect the thoughtful, grounded work of communities stepping into the energy transition and asking what it could look like on their own streets.
As you read through, we invite you to explore the shared themes, distinct strategies, and big questions these communities are helping us surface — and to consider what a transition rooted in equity, collaboration, and place might look like in your own town.
About The Community
Please provide a snapshot of the community's demographic profile (age groups, ethnic diversity, household types). Briefly mention historical and cultural aspects, including unique traditions or characteristics that set the community apart. Highlight major developments or shifts in the community’s landscape over time (this includes future plans).
Optional:
Please explain any specific EJ-focused considerations of the project, such as prioritizing neighborhoods affected by environmental challenges (e.g., air quality or access to green spaces). Describe how these factors influenced the project’s focus.
Sustainability Programs
Please summarize any preceding and parallel sustainability initiatives in the community, such as renewable energy programs or waste reduction efforts. Mention how these intersect with community identity and align with environmental objectives that could intersect with a geothermal network.
Local Motivation for Geothermal Networks
Please share the story of why this project matters to the community, touching on issues like energy costs, climate vulnerability, and access to reliable resources. Connect these to the project's goals, showing how it addresses residents' needs.
Site Selection
Give an overview of the site selection considerations. Additionally, share a site map and location of a single preferred site. Describe the level of readiness of this community to adopt geothermal.
Community Partners
Please describe key community groups (nonprofits, associations) that were instrumental in outreach and trust-building. Describe their role in information sharing and community involvement in the project.
Community Engagement
Please summarize community engagement strategies implemented and insights gained, noting the level of interest and co-benefits of geothermal networks that resonated the most with local stakeholders.
Opportunistic Thermal Resources
Please summarize any unique thermal resources (e.g., bodies of water or geothermal sites) identified and provide location or map.
Opportunities for the Future
Identify new opportunities that emerged from community conversations, like potential partnerships, increased awareness about energy resilience, or needs for educational programs. Mention any new relationships formed with local organizations or potential collaborations for future sustainability projects.
