Green Success Stories puts Ashley Besic, Thermal Energy Networks Senior Associate at the Building Decarbonization Coalition, in the Green Spotlight. Ashley shares her passion for implementing neighborhood-scale building decarbonization solutions, using thermal energy networks (TENs) as a holistic sustainability solution, and merging expertise in real estate, collaboration, and technology to foster resilient, equitable communities across the country.
Tell us a bit about your sustainability journey.
I started my career as a Sustainability Project Manager at LivCor, a Blackstone Portfolio Company, where I helped establish the ESG department and drive sustainability initiatives. Then, I moved on to the Urban Land Institute (ULI), where I implemented the ULI Net Zero Imperative, a multi-year initiative focused on accelerating decarbonization in the built environment.
Now, I convene multiple stakeholders to develop a comprehensive, neighborhood-scale strategy for a phased, managed transition toward clean energy, specifically focusing on thermal energy networks. I organize proceedings for the BDC’s national coalition of thermal energy network advocates, and I oversee equity initiatives for our team. As the national focus intensifies on renewable energy sources like solar and wind, the opportunities for advancing shallow geothermal networks for heating and cooling in the built environment are tremendous.
The journey towards sustainability is not without its challenges. While working on case study projects with external partners, I’ve learned the importance of collaboration and the complexities of managing that collaboration. Similarly, efforts to deploy a real estate climate council with external partners revealed that having connections alone is insufficient; the quality of collaboration is crucial. These experiences have encouraged me to explore leadership roles in projects aligned more closely with my passion for real estate, where I can leverage my expertise to drive meaningful sustainable change.
For me, this journey is not just about professional growth; it’s about making a tangible difference in the world. Despite personal challenges, my commitment to driving sustainable practices and fostering collaboration remains steadfast. Together, we can build a future where sustainability is at the heart of our communities, and where innovative solutions pave the way for a greener, more equitable world.
Tell us a bit about the product or solution you offer.
A key pathway to reducing carbon emissions in our communities rapidly, affordably, and equitably is through neighborhood-scale building decarbonization. The BDC has identified two primary technology pathways to implement a neighborhood-scale approach: the electric network and the thermal energy network. Both pathways offer emissions reductions, air quality improvement, and affordability benefits, and can be applied to both new construction and existing buildings nationwide.
The electric network integrates with the existing electric grid and utilizes four primary electric appliances: heat pump water heaters, air- or ground-source heat pumps, induction or electric resistance ranges, and heat pump or electric resistance clothes dryers. Utilities like PG&E in California are taking this approach to safely electrifying entire neighborhoods instead of replacing expensive, aging gas pipelines, which could burden ratepayers with high energy bills.
I work primarily on the thermal energy network pathway. Thermal energy networks provide efficient, non-combusting heating and cooling to entire neighborhoods. A shared network of shallow, ambient-temperature water-filled pipes transfers heat between buildings and thermal energy sources, such as the earth, other buildings, or waste heat sources. By employing ground-source heat pumps in each house this heat-sharing network provides combustion-free space heating and cooling. Electric appliances can be used for water heating, clothes drying, and cooking.
These systems significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable energy practices nationwide. And they have potential to be a more equitable approach to electrification, because every house or building in the neighborhood connects to these networks, and no one is left behind.
As the nation starts to invest in networked geothermal for heating and cooling and continues to invest in other renewable energy sources, the potential for transformative change is immense. By focusing on neighborhood-scale building decarbonization, comprehensive weatherization and energy efficiency measures, and equitable access to sustainable technologies, we can lead the way in creating a more sustainable and resilient future.
Share a green success story with us – how have you helped customers or other businesses in the fight against climate change?
While emissions and energy efficiency often dominate discussions in the building decarbonization world, water management and conservation are equally critical. Incorporating water considerations into our sustainability strategies is essential for ensuring long-term resilience.
This year, I conducted a survey and wrote a research brief of water savings data from ten thermal energy networks across North America. We wanted to test a logical claim: if TENs replace commercial buildings’ evaporative cooling towers and steam boilers, then installing these systems should save water. This has particular relevance in places dealing with drought or water scarcity, like the Southwest.
Through this research, I found plenty of data to confirm that TENs not only save water, they save a lot of water. In fact, between the eight sites that shared their savings in terms of gallons, we found that they saved 337 million gallons of water annually. That’s equivalent to the annual water use of 3,000 U.S. households, or about 511 Olympic-sized pools. We also found that buildings saved water across climates and geographies, suggesting that this is a sustainable solution in a lot of places.
Finally, the research brief included calls-to-action for developers, builders, and policymakers to increase and standardize their water data collection. My hope is that by integrating advanced water-saving technologies and practices with geothermal and other renewable energy solutions, we can develop a more comprehensive approach to sustainability rather than focusing on silos.
What would you do with $1 billion dollars?
If given a billion dollars, I would strategically invest in a mix of real estate, impact ventures, sustainable infrastructure, technology, and philanthropy to maximize financial returns and create positive societal impact. A significant portion would go towards addressing housing shortages by investing $300 million in affordable and missing middle housing, sustainable real estate developments, and supportive housing for seniors and veterans. Another $200 million would be allocated to impact investing in climate tech, social impact ventures, and agri-tech, supporting innovations that address critical issues like clean energy, food security, and financial inclusion. I would also dedicate $150 million to community development through education, healthcare access, and revitalization projects that enhance the quality of life in underserved areas. Investments in sustainable infrastructure, such as public transportation, clean water systems, and climate resilience, would receive $100 million, while $150 million would support technology and innovation, focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion.
The remaining funds would be used to support environmental conservation efforts, arts and culture, emergency relief, and future opportunities. Specifically, $50 million would go towards wildlife conservation, reforestation, and marine protection to preserve natural ecosystems. Another $25 million would be dedicated to arts, cultural preservation, and supporting creative spaces that enrich communities. I would set aside $25 million for a crisis response fund to address disasters and humanitarian needs swiftly. Finally, a $50 million reserve fund would ensure flexibility to seize high-impact opportunities or address unforeseen challenges. This approach balances immediate impact with long-term sustainability, fostering growth and resilience across key sectors while aligning with values of social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
How should readers get in touch with you and/or your organization?
You can reach me on LinkedIn, or catch up with my work each month in our newsletter! For more resources on building decarbonization, check out our Compass.
Kudos
Many thanks to Ashley Besic and the Building Decarbonization Coalition. Green Success Stories is happy to support and highlight your efforts! We invite you the reader to do the same.
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