County upgrades library with cleaner heating tech

# **Pitkin County’s Bold Move: Ditching Gas for Cleaner Heat**

Pitkin County is making a **game-changing shift**—replacing outdated gas boilers with cutting-edge **electric heat pump systems** in two critical buildings. Unlike traditional furnaces that burn fuel to generate heat, these modern pumps **harness existing warmth** from the air outside, drastically reducing energy waste. The county forecasts this upgrade will **cut greenhouse gas emissions from its building network by over a third**, a major stride toward its ambitious **90% emissions reduction target by mid-century**.

### **Why the Switch?**
With the old boilers nearing the end of their lifespan, county officials sought a solution that aligned with **climate goals**—one that delivered **efficiency without compromise**. The new system leverages the region’s **cleaner electric grid**, relying on gas backup only during the **coldest winter days**. The result? **Fewer pollutants** wafting from these buildings while maintaining cozy indoor temperatures year-round.