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SVL Geothermal Solutions LLC: Engineering your land into a Seasonal Thermal Battery

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At first glance, geothermal may seem like a single technology—but that’s one of the biggest misconceptions in the industry. During our latest SVL Coffee Break, Engineering Your Land into a Seasonal Thermal Battery, SVL Geothermal Solutions LLC. President Jim Lubratt and SVL Sales Engineer Andy Bernhardt explained why successful geothermal projects begin by asking the right question:

“What system is best for this building?”

The answer?

It depends.

Just as engineers select different HVAC systems based on a building’s unique requirements, the same approach should be taken with geothermal. Land availability, heating and cooling loads, project budget, long-term operating costs, and subsurface conditions all influence which geothermal solution delivers the greatest value.

Five Geothermal Solutions. One Trusted Engineering Team.

Rather than promoting a single technology for every project, SVL Geothermal Solutions LLC evaluates five proven geothermal approaches to determine the best fit for each application:

  • Traditional Vertical Bore (TVB)
  • Geo-PAK® (Smart, Compact TVB)
  • Submerged Closed Loop Heat Exchanger (SCLHE)
  • Groundwater Thermal Exchange Device (GTED)
  • Thermal Energy Networks (TENs)

Each system has strengths depending on the project goals. Some maximize performance where land is limited. Others excel in large campus or district energy applications. Some leverage aquifers, while others use the surrounding earth as a long-term thermal storage medium. The key is selecting the right technology—not forcing every project into the same solution.

Engineering Your Land into a Seasonal Thermal Battery

One of the webinar’s most compelling concepts was viewing the ground beneath your building as a seasonal thermal battery.

Instead of simply rejecting heat during the summer and extracting heat during the winter, advanced geothermal systems can intentionally manage and balance thermal energy over an entire year. By storing heat when it’s abundant and recovering it when it’s needed, building owners can improve system efficiency, reduce operating costs, and increase long-term performance.

This philosophy is central to SVL’s approach and is especially evident in Geo-PAK®, SVL’s innovative geothermal solution designed to dramatically reduce the land required for traditional bore fields while maintaining year-round thermal balance.

Geothermal Doesn’t Stop at the Bore Field

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the webinar was that geothermal success isn’t determined solely by what’s underground.

The equipment inside the building plays an equally important role.

Building envelope improvements, energy recovery technologies, inverter-driven heat pumps, intelligent controls, wastewater energy recovery, indoor air quality strategies, and heat pump equipment selection all influence the size and cost of a geothermal system.

During the presentation, Jim shared 10 engineering strategies that can reduce geothermal field size—and project cost—by up to 40% when applied together. Instead of treating geothermal as a standalone system, SVL views the entire building as one integrated energy ecosystem.

Looking Beyond Today’s Incentives

While federal incentives continue to accelerate geothermal adoption, the discussion emphasized that the long-term value extends well beyond tax credits.

Ground-source systems benefit from stable underground temperatures rather than fluctuating outdoor air temperatures. In climates like Minnesota, where temperatures can swing more than 120°F between winter and summer, that consistency translates into improved heat pump performance, greater efficiency, and more predictable operating costs.

The Future Is Smarter Geothermal

The webinar concluded with a preview of Geo-PAK® Pro, an evolution of the Geo-PAK concept that combines seasonal thermal storage with photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) solar panels, microgrid technology, and intelligent controls.

Rather than allowing excess thermal energy to go unused, these technologies work together to optimize the underground thermal battery throughout the year, creating opportunities for even greater efficiency and reduced geothermal field sizing.

Watch the Replay

Whether you’re designing a school, office, healthcare facility, industrial plant, or district energy system, geothermal should never be approached as a one-size-fits-all solution.

At SVL Geothermal Solutions LLC, our engineering team evaluates your building, your site, and your long-term performance goals to recommend the geothermal system that makes the most sense for your project.

Don’t Miss the Next SVL Coffee Break

SVL Coffee Break webinars provide practical engineering insights for commercial HVAC professionals. Topics include:

  • Heat pump technology
  • Geothermal HVAC systems
  • Building electrification
  • Decarbonization solutions
  • Hydronic systems
  • Thermal energy storage
  • Commercial HVAC innovation

Opt-in to SVL marketing emails to receive upcoming Coffee Break invites and on-demand recordings.

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                      Jim Lubratt

                      President & Chief Executive Officer

                      Jim Lubratt has been president of SVL since 2006. He first joined the company as a sales engineer in 1992 and was made a partner in 2000. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and first entered the HVAC industry as a marketing engineer for a heat pump manufacturer in Texas.

                      In addition to his role at SVL, Jim is vice president of AQC Industries, LLC, a manufacturer of specialized underground ductwork systems. He is also an investor and board member for Hydromx, Inc., a manufacturer of heat transfer nanofluids, and Crotega, Inc., creators of personal and building security solutions.

                      Jim and his wife, Tracy, met in college and married in 1993. They have three children, two of whom have graduated college in Texas, while their youngest is attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

                      Outside of work, Jim places a priority on his faith, family, friends, and fitness. He enjoys helping people-supporting charities, time with his wife and kids, road-biking with friends and efforts to stay physically fit.

                      A message from Jim on the achievements of SVL

                      SVL started in February 1967 by Charlie Schwab and Craig Vollhaber. Schwab-Vollhaber, Inc. (as it was named at the time) steadily grew and, in 1985, welcomed Paul Lubratt as another partner, becoming Schwab-Vollhaber-Lubratt, Inc. SVL’s founders had the determination to build the most talented, customer-focused HVAC representative in the Midwest. Our original drive and passion still shape the company and culture to this day. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual. From humble beginnings, SVL founders paved the way to industry success with hard work and determination. “Today, SVL is strongly organized with great people to lead our industry forward as we are challenged with fast-paced changes to reduce our environmental impact,” says Jim. Now, 55+ years later, SVL is under the leadership of two new principals who share the same vision and drive that has propelled SVL throughout the years. Built on a foundation of integrity, Jim Lubratt, and Charlie Vollhaber strive to ensure opportunities for personal growth, improved work environment, and shared life enrichment. The achievements of our organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual.

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                      Charlie Vollhaber

                      Executive Vice President & Officer

                      Charlie Vollhaber is a third-generation employee at SVL, as a grandson of company co-founder Craig Vollhaber and son of former CEO Todd Vollhaber. Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Minnesota. He became an outside salesman for SVL in 2013, was made a partner in 2019, and then executive vice president and officer in 2022.

                      He grew up playing sports, including football, basketball, golf, and track, and enjoys the competitive nature of the HVAC industry. “I like that no two days are ever the same as there are always questions to answer and problems to solve,” he says. “Most of all, I enjoy working with great people and coordinating together on challenging projects to achieve positive results together.”

                      Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesley, and their three boys. He’s also fond of golfing, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events. One of his favorite quotes is from the book of Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count other more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Because HVAC and construction is such a team effort, he says, “this mindset helps to create positive results in a vast majority of situations.”

                      A message from Charlie on the culture of SVL

                      “At SVL, we strive to cultivate a unique culture that revolves around finding and empowering exceptional individuals. We believe in equipping our team members with the right tools and resources to succeed.

                      As we’ve grown the business, we have deliberately maintained a small firm culture, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. We encourage open dialogue and promote a sense of comfort among our employees, allowing anyone to ask questions and seek guidance from anyone else, regardless of their level within the organization.

                      We foster a workshop-like atmosphere where everyone’s contribution is valued. Presenting your work to another individual or a group of teammates provides a platform for collaboration, where ideas are shared, dissected, and improved collectively. We firmly believe in the power of mentoring and provide various avenues for both formal and informal guidance. Whether it’s through structured training programs or casual conversations, we encourage team members to discuss a wide range of topics, from work-related successes or issues to everyday personal life topics.

                      In summary, our culture is built on the foundation of attracting exceptional individuals, empowering them with the necessary tools, and fostering a collaborative environment where mentorship and growth thrive. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where every team member feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.”

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                      Al Gramse

                      Vice President of SVL Service Corporation

                      Al Gramse has been in the HVAC industry for over 30 years. He began as a service technician.  Then over his career worked in technical support, building automation, then service manager prior to his current role.

                      How did Al end up in the HVAC industry?  “After high school, I took a couple years to figure out what I wanted to do.   Where I was working at the time, a grumpy old coworker, who I didn’t get along with, walked up to me and said ‘What are you doing here?  Go back to school.’”  I said, “For what?”  He said “There’s a tech school down the street.  Go down there and pick something that interests you”. Then he walked away.  That weird interaction, with someone I didn’t get along with, sent me down a 30-year path in the HVAC industry.   Never underestimate the potential of a little encouragement.   Even if it is from a strange source.

                      Al has been with SVL for 15 years and is the head of our SVL Service division. “The people here are some of the best in the industry,” Al says. “A bunch of team-oriented, knowledgeable, go-getters.” His personal mantra is “figure it out,” “Do a little fact-finding on your own. Use your own brain before you use someone else’s. But know when to ask for help.” he prescribes. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish on your own if you dig in a little bit.”

                      Outside of work, Al has lots of outdoor hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and motorcycling, though his favorite pastime is simply hanging out with family.

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                      Jennifer Roach

                      Director of Marketing, Events & Administration

                      More than just a creative director, Jen brings 30 years of marketing and leadership magic to SVL. Her journey began in the trenches of graphic design, quickly evolving into crafting eye-catching campaigns for iconic brands like Target, Gabberts, Gander Mountain and Camping World. As a seasoned director and agency veteran, she honed her skills with recreational vehicle giant Parts Unlimited before leading creative teams at HOM Furniture and, ultimately, landing at SVL during a crucial growth phase.

                      Jen thrives on "servant-leadership," empowering her team and fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. "It unlocks their potential, fuels creativity, and leads to work we're all proud of," she says. "I want my team to care, collaborate, and push boundaries together."

                      When not shaping impactful campaigns, Jen enjoys weekend adventures with her husband, Scott, and son, Crew. Their lives are a tapestry of shared passions, from bike rides and baking experiments to cheering on Simley High School wrestlers. And with her recently built forever home in Cottage Grove, her free time now includes a new, thrilling chapter: weekend renovation warrior!

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                      Mike Ruff

                      Vice President of Information Technology

                      Mike Ruff, the Vice President of Information Technology at SVL Inc., is a seasoned professional with an impressive 24-year tenure in the IT industry. His journey in the field is marked by extensive experience and expertise in various domains, including serving as a Cloud Architect focusing on Azure Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and both B2B and B2C solutions. Mike’s skills extend to being a Security Architect, where he has honed his knowledge in safeguarding digital assets, and he is also proficient in the Microsoft 365 stack, virtualization, routing, switching, and wireless technologies.

                      Beyond his professional roles, Mike is deeply passionate about technology in all its forms, which is evident in his career and personal hobbies. His love for technology is not just limited to his work but also spills over into his leisure activities. In the summertime, Mike enjoys the thrill of riding his motorcycle, embracing the freedom and adventure it brings. When winter arrives, he switches gears to snowboarding, seeking the excitement and challenge of the snowy slopes. These hobbies reflect Mike’s dynamic personality and continuous pursuit of technically engaging and physically exhilarating activities.

                      Mike Ruff's blend of professional expertise and personal passions make him a unique and valuable asset to SVL Inc., embodying a perfect synergy of technical acumen and a zest for life's adventurous aspects.

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