Cutting energy costs

Energy efficiency, increased safety, and a more cost-effective learning environment are on tap for Schoharie Central Schools following extensive work on facilities this past spring and summer.

Ameresco, the company hired by Schoharie Central Schools for the energy performance project, has been hard at work since spring 2011, installing new
heating/ventilation/lighting systems in our school buildings and bus garage.

The project is valued at about $2.1 million, with 83.8% reimbursed by state building aid and the remainder to be accounted for by savings in utilitiy bills due to reduced energy consumption.

“In these tough economic times, our partnership with Ameresco has allowed the district to make necessary energy system upgrades without any budget impact,” Superintendent of Schools Brian Sherman said. “Implementing these measures will make our facilities safer, more productive and cost-effective environment for staff, students and the public, all while reducing our overall energy costs.”

The project includes upgrades for a total of 197,514 square feet of space, requires no upfront capital costs, and is expected to save more than $119,000 annually over the next 18 years. Ameresco verified the anticipated energy cost reductions through an audit conducted in accordance with the North American Energy Measurement and Verification Protocol.

Ameresco designed the upgrades for the following energy conservation measures:

• Lighting System Improvements
• Lighting Controls
• Building Management System
• Boiler Replacement
• Domestic Hot Water Boiler
• Steam to Hot Water Conversion
• Pipe Insulation
• Kitchen Hot Water Valves
• Infiltration Reductions
• Unit Ventilator Replacement
• Relocate Interior Condensing
Units
• Modify Library Ductwork
• Infrared Heaters

It is anticipated that most of the work for the energy performance project will be
completed by the time that the buildings need to be heated.

[9/26/11]