The first phase of a $3.5 million energy conservation project is completed at Baltimore City Public Schools.
The energy efficiency effort led by contractor Ameresco replaced interior and exterior lighting with LED lighting. Some of the lighting also included occupancy sensors so that the lights will turn off automatically when no one is present.
The project is estimated to earn Baltimore’s City Schools a $500,000 rebate from BGE, the local utility, and save over $400,000 annually in lower electricity costs. The 15 schools include elementary, middle, and high schools located throughout Baltimore City.
“Partnering with Ameresco on this project has provided the improvements we needed. Their support and expertise helped us navigate this important project smoothly and without disturbing student learning,” said Dr. Lynette Washington, Chief Operating Officer. “From the initial investment grade audit to the completion of this first phase of work, Ameresco has helped us generate energy savings and provide enhanced learning environments for our students.”
Construction began in November 2021 and reached completion by May. A second phase of energy efficiency upgrades will be discussed between Ameresco and City Schools in the coming months.
The Baltimore school district serves nearly 78,000 students. The district’s sustainability plan includes renewable energy and partnerships to reduce emissions with partners such as the Baltimore Energy Challenge, Baltimore Gas & Electric, Maryland Energy Administration and Institute for Local Self-Reliance, among others.
The U.S. Department of Energy has a webpage devoted to the Zero Energy Schools program. Those type of enhancements can consume 65 to 80 percent less energy than conventionally constructed and operated schools, according to the site.
Ameresco has undertaken or completed energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the Massachusetts College of Arts and Design, Jesuit school Brophy College Preparatory in Phoenix and Princeton University.
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(Rod Walton, senior editor for EnergyTech, is a 14-year veteran of covering the energy industry both as a newspaper and trade journalist. He can be reached at [email protected]).
