Geothermal Sandoval Project Will Open in 2028
Northeast Portland residents will live in a 78-unit building featuring long-term geothermal heating.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Utilities
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Should local affordable housing projects include paid utility costs to help keep residents in their homes?
The Sandoval affordable housing development will offer 78 apartments in Northeast Portland when it opens in 2028. The site plans to use a geothermal energy system to stabilize utility costs for low-income households.
Why it matters
By using geothermal energy, the developer aims to eliminate the financial strain of utility bills for residents earning 50% to 60% of the area median income. The project seeks to ensure that tenants never have to choose between keeping their homes warm and buying food.
The development will feature a geothermal system with a lifespan of up to 100 years, compared to just 15 to 20 years for conventional equipment. It remains unknown exactly how much total energy expenditure will be reduced once the 78 units are fully occupied in 2028.
The players
Portland Clean Energy Fund
A city-managed fund that provides financial support for climate-focused infrastructure projects.
Portland Housing Bureau
The city agency responsible for developing and preserving affordable housing options.
Metro
The regional government body that manages planning and investment for the Portland metro area.
The details
The Sandoval will circulate water through a closed-loop system extending 600 feet underground to harness stable earth temperatures for climate control. This design saves roof space, allowing for increased solar panel installation on the building. Funding for the geothermal system comes from the Portland Clean Energy Fund, while the Portland Housing Bureau and Metro are lead partners on the project.
Timeline
The Sandoval development is expected to open in 2028.
Beyond the Bridges
This project uses the Portland Clean Energy Fund to improve building efficiency, which follows the pattern set by other local infrastructure grants. It represents a significant expansion of the fund's scope, moving from simple weatherization toward integrated geothermal technology.
When the building opens in 2028, residents will benefit from a non-profit model that covers utility costs to prevent households from facing sudden budget shortfalls. Families qualifying at 50% to 60% of the area median income should watch for official pre-leasing announcements.
The takeaway
The Sandoval highlights how long-term utility infrastructure can be leveraged to provide housing stability for lower-income Portlanders. Residents should track the development timeline as the 2028 opening date approaches.
Further reading
For broader trends in infrastructure and sustainability, visit Portland Utilities.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KOIN 6 Portland.
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Should local affordable housing projects include paid utility costs to help keep residents in their homes?
