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New York School District To Save $6 Million Through Infrastucture Upgrades

The New Paltz Central School District in New York is launching a series of energy efficiency upgrades expected to save $258,461 a year. The $4 million project won't require any cash upfront from the district or taxpayers.

Ameresco has completed an energy performance audit and will design and install the upgrades. Ameresco will also pay for the costs of the overhaul as part of an energy savings performance contract.

An ESPC is an agreement between an energy services provider and an institution or building owner to upgrade facilities. The service provider pays the costs of the upgrades, allowing the institution to pay the money back with the resulting savings.

The district reported that it will save $6 million over 18 years as a result of the improvements, which will include:

  • Lighting system improvements and controls;
  • Computer load management;
  • A building management system;
  • Premium efficiency motors;
  • Energy-efficient transformers;
  • Boiler re-piping and controls;
  • A solar hot water heater; and
  • Kitchen upgrades.

The project is currently awaiting approval from the New York State Education Department, which also provided some of the funding.

About the Author

Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at [email protected].

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