Rockport Jail Energy Overhaul to Save Thousands in Utility Costs

ROCKPORT, Ind. (June 21, 2007) – Extensive energy efficiency and infrastructure upgrades recently completed at the Spencer County Detention Center in Rockport will dramatically reduce operating costs at the facility saving taxpayers more than a half million dollars over the next ten years.

Ameresco, a nationally recognized energy services firm with offices in Indianapolis, has installed numerous high efficiency heating and air conditioning equipment, lighting, a new roofing system and provided water conservation improvements in a project that began last September. County officials signed what is called an energy performance contract with Ameresco allowing for the cost saving improvements to be made without the County having to make an upfront capital investment. The entire $382,298 project cost will be paid for from annual cost savings of $62,000, which Ameresco guarantees for ten years.

“The Spencer County Jail is going green,” said County Commissioner Dan Rininger alluding to the significant reductions in electricity, natural gas, water and operational costs at the jail and the positive effect that the new energy efficient improvements will have on the environment. “We’re not just benefiting from a fiscal standpoint, using less energy means we’re cutting back on greenhouse gas emissions and reducing our impact on the environment too. That is an important feature.”

A trend toward rising construction costs, and escalating utility and operational expenses at the Jail prompted the Commissioners and Council members to explore creative methods for reducing his operating costs. By replacing heating and other power-consuming units at the facility the County will avoid reoccurring maintenance expenses that were costing thousands of dollars.

“The County Officials wanted to be proactive instead of reactive towards increasing maintenance costs, ” said Ameresco’s Mark Heirbrandt who worked with local officials on the project. “For governments that are thinking ahead, these kinds of changes will extend the life of municipal buildings and save money in process.”

Rininger said visitors to the facility will not see most of the improvements which are only visible from the roof which has also been replaced. “Besides the energy equipment upgrades, we’re getting a 20-year warranty on a new roof,” said Rininger.

About Ameresco:
Ameresco, Inc., is the largest independent comprehensive energy solutions provider in North America. Headquartered in Framingham Massachusetts, Ameresco utilizes innovative strategies, systems, and technologies for renewable and sustainable energy generation and infrastructure renewal, thereby reducing operating expenses, increasing energy reliability and enhancing the environment.