The End of Steam

11 May 2021

The Steam Plant at Carleton.

On May 21, 2021, Carleton will turn off the steam for the last time in the 111 year history of its heating plant. This marks a significant milestone in the College’s history, as Carleton makes the switch from steam to geothermal energy. This event will be a momentous step toward achieving Carleton’s goal of becoming carbon free by the year 2050. An exhibit in the library features a brief history of steam heat on campus with photos, drawings, and artifacts documenting the steam plant, the people who made it run, and more. 

Learn more about celebratory events marking the end of steam on the College’s Sustainability office website