September, 2013
38
High-Profile: Facilities Development News
Educational Institutions: Energy Savings on a Shoestring Budget can measure and track energy performance ment. Although it may not be the most im-
by Matthew P. Guarracino In today’s current economic climate, everyone is watching their wallets and pinching pennies wherever possible while still trying to maintain a sustainable quality of life. Educational institutions are regularly searching for methods to obtain and maintain the best atmosphere for their students and faculty, but many across the country A 500 kW ground-mounted solar photovolMatthew Guarracino have been hindered taic (PV) system installed at Hoosac Valley High School by capital cuts and budget restraints, some even experiencing of the project, allowing the customer to pay complete elimination of former programs project costs through their savings. and student benefits. As much as 30% of a school’s total Unfortunately, because of these shoeenergy is used inefficiently or unnecessarily. string budgets, school districts are unable Through ESPCs, schools are able to save in to make critical infrastructure and energy a variety of cost-effective ways. By being investments in their aging facilities because more energy efficient, schools can help prethe capital expenditure is simply too hefty vent greenhouse gas emissions and improve a price tag. Sometimes costs simply cannot the students’ learning environment. outweigh the benefits. Pinpointing areas where energyOne option that is gaining popularity efficient improvements and other upgrades nationwide is energy savings performance can be most effective is a key component. contracts (ESPCs). As stated by the DepartSchool and facility improvements can conment of Energy, ESPCs allow federal agenstitute a wide range of enhancements; stancies (i.e., schools) to accomplish energy dard advancement often upgrades typically savings projects without up-front capital include the installations of new lighting, costs and without special congressional apan energy management system, new high propriations. ESPCs help federal agencies efficiency boilers, heating, ventilation and meet energy efficiency, renewable energy, air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades, insuwater conservation, and emissions reduclation improvements, water conservation tion goals by streamlining contract funding upgrades and solar panel installations. For for energy management projects. Meansome schools that aren’t ready to take the while, energy services companies can guarleap into construction, gradual changes are antee energy savings will outweigh the cost often a successful alternative. Most schools
by initiating low cost measures that include recycling, turning off lights when not in use, setting back the thermostat at night and when a building is unoccupied, and performing maintenance on equipment. Awareness is a key concept, but educating students and employees of the school can have a very positive effect on energy usage behaviors. From elementary schools to colleges and universities, educational facilities have access to a wide variety of efficient energy strategies and solutions that deliver both savings and proven benefits to the environ-
mediate need for some schools, increased energy efficiency can provide classrooms and campuses with a greater incentive to become greener, while energy savings and economic benefits can be put toward capital improvements, ultimately creating a healthier and higher performing school. The campuses that best leverage these strategies will be the hubs to inspire future energy innovations. Matthew P. Guarracino is business development manager, J.M. Electrical Company, Inc.
Landmark GC for MeadowView Davis Square Architects
Tewksbury, MA - Landmark Structures Corporation has been selected as general contractor for an innovative new senior housing development, The Villa at MeadowView, located on Livingston Street in Tewksbury. Groundbreaking ceremonies were held recently for the 33-unit, $6 million project, which is a partnership between the town and the Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley. Much of the funding for the project will come from the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The project will be built on land leased from the Tewksbury Housing Authority and will include 32 one-bedroom and one two-bedroom apartments. Each apartment will have its own kitchen and handicappedaccessible bathroom. A common area will
The Villa at MeadowView include a patio, entryway with fireplace, dining room, an arts-and-craft room, and a library with computer access. Construction will be completed in June 2014. Landmark Structures is working closely with the Somerville architectural firm Davis Square Architects, as well as with representatives of Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and housing consultants from Gagnier-Hicks. The project has been in the planning stages since 2008.
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