U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Modernizes Energy Infrastructure Through $197 Million Performance Contract
The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) is undertaking a major infrastructure modernization effort through a $197 million Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) with Ameresco, Inc. The project, executed through the U.S. Army Engineering Support Center in Huntsville, will upgrade critical energy and water systems across NRL’s Washington, D.C. campus and Chesapeake Bay Detachment to enhance reliability, efficiency, and resilience.
As part of the agreement, Ameresco will modernize steam generation and distribution systems, upgrade chilled water infrastructure, and implement a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to support real-time monitoring and management. The project is expected to generate more than $362 million in total savings over a 21-year performance period, including $12.5 million in annual cost savings once fully implemented.
“This initiative reflects Ameresco’s deep commitment to supporting the operational integrity of our nation’s defense infrastructure,” said Nicole Bulgarino, President of Federal Solutions and Utility Infrastructure at Ameresco. “By integrating high-efficiency systems and SCADA-enabled technologies, we’re modernizing aging infrastructure and delivering significant cost savings. These upgrades are designed to ensure uninterrupted mission readiness while aligning with NRL’s long-term mission.”
Work under the ESPC will be completed in phases to prioritize the most critical needs while maintaining operational continuity. Planned upgrades include boiler and chiller plant modernization, site-wide LED lighting and control systems, retrofits to steam distribution and plumbing networks, and improvements to cooling tower efficiency through advanced water treatment and monitoring technologies.
The project will also address aging infrastructure by repairing and replacing the steam and condensate distribution system. Once complete, the initiative is expected to improve reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and support NRL’s long-term energy independence and mission resilience.