Seattle College Upgrading Energy Systems in Capital-Free Deal

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 02/22/11

Seattle Central Community College has entered into an agreement that will allow it to make improvements in its energy systems with no capital investment. The Washington school has signed on with Ameresco Quantum, a company that consults on, builds, and manages energy-related projects.

Work will consist of replacing HVAC equipment, upgrading lighting, and upgrading energy management systems in multiple campus buildings. In addition, water conservation measures will be implemented to reduce water and energy usage for water heating.

The project is expected to cost $4.7 million, of which $2 million is being covered by a grant from the state's Department of Commerce under the 2010 Jobs Act.

When the improvements are done, they're expected to provide about $200,000 yearly in energy, water, and maintenance-related savings, which are guaranteed by the vendor, and out of which the college will pay its share of the work. The upgrades will also reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 650 tons.

"This project reflects our institutional commitment to sustainability," said college President Paul Killpatrick. "It's a smart fiscal investment that will reap benefits for years to come."

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

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