As an infrastructure solutions provider for colleges and universities, Ameresco understands the challenges and helps institutions align with Federal and state goals, as well as the expectations of the students that schools serve. Most college and university infrastructure is aging and patched together from years of short-term fixes and limited upgrades. Performance may be well outside of specifications, efficiency may be compromised and maintenance can be challenging. Add mandated upgrades from state and Federal officials, and physical plant managers find themselves squeezed between what they can afford and what is required.
With an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) from Ameresco, college and university energy infrastructure upgrades may have no upfront costs. Central Plant upgrades, HVAC upgrades and LED area lighting all improve the quality of campus life and provide higher energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs. For further savings and efficiency, these infrastructure solutions can be paired with Ameresco AssetPlanner™ and automated building controls to benchmark performance, reduce demand and provide predictive maintenance schedules.
Ameresco can modernize a single facility or provide comprehensive campus-wide infrastructure solutions financed entirely with capital collected from energy conservation. Modern energy systems lower energy costs, reduce reliance on the power grid, increase energy security and provide additional benefits for student recruitment. Ameresco also offers a behavior modification program that delivers life lessons for embracing efficiency and conservation measures.
Interested in Learning More?
Campus Infrastructure and Student Recruitment
Campus infrastructure and energy conservation policies play a role in the ability of colleges and universities to attract and recruit undergraduate and graduate students. Increasing awareness of environmental responsibilities and the need for sustainable development at the primary-school level has created a generation of students hard-wired to consider environmental impact as part of their decision making.
Ameresco can develop programs with higher education institutions that encourage energy conservation through changes in student behavior, such as reduced lighting, electricity and water use. We also develop renewable energy systems that serve as constant reminders that the institution is in touch with the concerns of its student base. Once relegated to recruitment in the sciences, campus energy use is now a consideration for students in every academic discipline. Universities and colleges that are seen as leaders in renewable energy use and energy conservation have an advantage in recruitment, as well as an energy use approach that delivers greater value for each energy dollar spent.
Project Highlights
As large energy consumers, colleges and universities play a pivotal role in decarbonization and resilience efforts. This resource offers practical, adaptable strategies that can be tailored to each institution’s unique needs. Discover how you can lead your institution to sustainability without compromising its bottom line.