In 2001, New Albany-Floyd County Consolidated Schools (NAFCCSC) embarked on a transformative journey to enhance their educational facilities, aiming to create optimal learning environments while prioritizing energy efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Partnering with Performance Services, the district initiated a series of design-build guaranteed energy savings projects that spanned over two decades, culminating in significant improvements across multiple campuses.
2001–2005: Laying the Foundation for Efficiency
During the initial phases, NAFCCSC focused on upgrading nine facilities over four years. These projects were completed on time, with no change orders, and achieved energy savings that exceeded expectations. The success of these endeavors established guaranteed energy savings contracts as the district’s preferred method for renovations.
2005: Cultivating an Energy-Conscious Culture
Recognizing the importance of behavioral change in energy conservation, NAFCCSC collaborated with Performance Services to develop an Energy Leadership Program. This initiative engaged staff and students district-wide, fostering a positive, competitive approach between schools to promote energy-saving behaviors rather than focusing on teacher non-compliance.
2017–2024: Advancing Learning Environments
In 2017, the district initiated additional phases aimed at further improving the learning environment for students and staff. A notable project during this period was the comprehensive renovation of the school’s pool facilities, which included:
- Pool Renovation: Complete overhaul of the existing pool infrastructure to enhance safety and functionality.
- Locker Room Upgrades: Modernization of locker rooms to provide a more comfortable and accommodating space for students.
- Installation of New Pool Heating and Filtration Equipment: Upgraded systems to improve energy efficiency and water quality.
These improvements not only enhanced the physical facilities but also contributed to a more conducive environment for athletic and recreational activities.
Remarkable Outcomes Achieved
Through these sustained efforts, NAFCCSC has realized significant achievements:
- ENERGY STAR® Certification: All 22 district facilities have earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® rating, placing them among the top energy-efficient buildings nationwide.
- Substantial Financial Savings: The district achieves over $2,000,000 in energy savings annually, demonstrating a strong commitment to fiscal stewardship.
- Exceptional Energy Efficiency: NAFCCSC is one of the most energy-efficient school corporations in the nation. The average energy cost is less than $1 per S.F. for all buildings, and the mean ENERGY STAR score is 98—an outstanding achievement.
Additional Project Highlights
- Upgraded Infrastructure: Replacement of outdated systems with high-efficiency two-pipe systems, boilers, chillers, fan systems, pumps, domestic hot water heaters, and windows.Installed variable speed drives, CO₂ sensors, and occupancy sensors to optimize energy usage.
- Advanced Controls Implementation: Installed digital controls to operate all of the HVAC systems.
- Enhanced Lighting: Renovation of lighting systems to provide illumination levels above 50 foot-candles in each classroom.
- Improved Air Quality: Verification and maintenance of proper fresh air introduction, with CO₂ sensors enabling daily monitoring.
- Noise Reduction: Implementation of variable speed fan systems to significantly reduce background noise.
Through strategic planning, collaborative partnerships, and a commitment to energy efficiency, New Albany-Floyd County Consolidated Schools has successfully transformed its facilities, fostered enhanced learning environments and achieved substantial operational savings that benefit both students and the broader community.
