Summary
Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) received over $1.9M from the Clean Buildings Performance Grant to support phased energy-efficiency upgrades across its largest campus facilities. In partnership with Ameresco and through an Energy Services Agreement enabled by the grant, PLU is actively implementing campuswide facilities and energy improvements. Ongoing and future phases will be funded by reinvesting energy and O&M savings, along with available energy rebates, reinforcing PLU’s long-term commitment to sustainability, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced learning environments.
“PLU is thrilled to receive this generous grant, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible energy use. These upgrades will significantly reduce our energy consumption, lower our carbon footprint, and create a more sustainable learning environment for our students and community.”
– Greg Perkinson,
Associate Vice President of Facilities Management
~27.00%
Annual Energy & Water Cost Reduction
$345,000
Estimated Annual Energy Cost Savings
1,300,000 Sq. Ft.
Facility Size
2,400,000 kWh
Estimated Annual Electricity Savings
Customer Benefits
The project delivers significant energy and cost savings while reinforcing PLU’s leadership in sustainable campus operations. By upgrading critical systems and improving overall building efficiency, the university reduces its carbon footprint and aligns with state performance standards. Through its partnership with Ameresco, PLU achieved a streamlined path from grant funding acquisition through project completion, minimizing risk and maximizing return on investment. Collectively, these improvements also enhance the learning environment and long-term resilience of campus facilities. Additional benefits include:
- Modernized infrastructure and improved system reliability
- Enhanced indoor environments for students and staff
- Leveraged limited capital funding, local utility rebate and grant funding programs to deliver campus-wide efficiency and capital upgrades
- Reduced energy consumption and operational costs
- Lowered carbon emissions and improved sustainability outcomes
- Compliance with Clean Buildings Performance Standards (CBPS)
Solution
Ameresco partnered closely with Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) to develop a successful grant proposal and deliver a multi-scope energy efficiency project across eight major campus buildings. The engagement combined strategic planning with technical implementation, ensuring compliance with CBPS while maximizing the impact of awarded funding. A range of infrastructure upgrades were deployed to improve building performance, reduce energy use, and modernize critical systems. The project leveraged both digital tools and physical retrofits to create a holistic approach to campus sustainability and included the following:
- Grant development and application support
- Asset and capital planning through AssetPlanner®
- Building envelope improvements and MEP system upgrades
- Interior LED lighting upgrades
- Construction and retrofit project execution
- HVAC, ventilation, and building controls optimization
