An Energy Transformation: From High Costs to High Performance
In 2000, Jennings County School Corporation embarked on a mission to enhance its educational facilities while exercising fiscal responsibility. Partnering with Performance Services, the district initiated a series of energy conservation projects aimed at reducing operational costs and improving the learning environment across their campuses.
Strategic Initiatives Implemented
- Energy Savings Performance Contract, Phases I-XI: Over multiple project phases from 2000-2022, the district implemented comprehensive energy efficiency measures, including the installation of variable frequency drives, high-efficiency boilers and chillers, LED lighting upgrades, advanced equipment controls, and CO₂ sensors to reduce energy costs and improve the learning environment for students and staff. Additional project highlights included improved ventilation control, new pumps and motors at multiple buildings, new windows at the High School, high-efficiency domestic hot water hearers installed, new air handling units, and new ducted vertical classroom units in multiple buildings.
- Energy Leadership Program: In 2013, the district took its efforts a step further by adopting a behavior-based energy conservation program. The Energy Leadership Program engaged all building stakeholders in energy-saving practices, fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the district.
Remarkable Outcomes Achieved
- Substantial Energy Savings: Through these combined efforts, the district achieved a 34% reduction in energy use, equating to a decrease of 3.5 million kWh across Phases I-X and the Energy Leadership Program.
- Financial Benefits: The district realized cumulative operational and energy savings of $16,771,966 over ten project phases, with an annual cost avoidance exceeding $350,000 from the Energy Leadership Program.
- National Recognition: All eight school buildings in the district earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® certification for superior energy performance, placing them among the top 25% of buildings nationwide.
The district’s commitment to energy efficiency not only resulted in significant cost savings but also demonstrated environmental stewardship and enhanced the quality of its educational facilities.
Through these initiatives, Jennings County School Corporation exemplifies how strategic energy management and stakeholder engagement can lead to substantial financial savings and improved learning environments.
