For Immediate Release
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9/9/2014
Energy Conservation Program to Save More Than $13 Million Over Next Decade.
Suffolk County Community College has undertaken a comprehensive, institution-wide energy conservation and management program that is expected to save the College and taxpayers more than $13 million during the next 10 years.
“Our adoption of this comprehensive, college-wide program is further evidence of our commitment to conservation, sustainability and the reduction of our carbon footprint,” said Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Shaun L. McKay.” President McKay said that since 2000, the College has undertaken more than 50 energy saving projects including installing high efficiency heating and air conditioning, solar panels and L.E.D. lighting across the College’s three campuses. “Every dollar we don’t spend on energy is a dollar we save for educational programs and purposes,” President McKay said.
The College has partnered with Cenergistic energy consultants to implement conservation efforts in more than 1,200 areas. The program will create a culture of energy conservation that has the potential to save not only the environment, but also teaching positions and student programs.
During the next five years, the College will work closely with Cenergistic’s engineers and consultants who will provide hands-on training and program supervision. Energy use will be analyzed and monitored in classrooms, offices, athletic facilities, kitchens, and other areas of the College to ensure energy is being used efficiently. Importantly, the program is designed to preserve comfortable environments during class and scheduled activities.
“This project is clearly a win-win for Suffolk. By increasing our operational efficiency, we reduce our institutional impact on the environment and can direct a greater percentage of our budget to our core mission of educating students,” said Suffolk County Community College Executive Director of Sustainability Programs Nicholas Palumbo.
Palumbo said that two energy specialists will work closely with the College to analyze and reduce campus energy use. All heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems will be optimized by lowering thermostats in building when when not in use and scheduled for comfort during use. Every College utility meter’s bill will be reviewed and analyzed using industry leading software that will help identify billing errors as well as energy saving opportunities. College staff will be educated about using the energy under each one’s control, and conservation will be encouraged. Each of the College’s buildings will undergo energy audits throughout the year to ensure that all systems are working efficiently and as designed.
