Ameresco to Reduce Utica Schools’ Energy Costs by Estimated $600,000 Per Year

Utica, NY (June 18, 2002) – Ameresco, Inc., one of the nation’s fastest growing energy services companies, today announced the acquisition of the Utica City School District energy conservation project from Niagara Mohawk Energy, Inc., the unregulated subsidiary of Niagara Mohawk Holdings, Inc.

Upon execution of the energy services agreement, Ameresco will install, operate and maintain energy efficient technologies for the school district, which are expected to save up to $600,000 in energy costs each year.

“Ameresco’s conservation services group is excited to implement this comprehensive project to address Utica City School District’s energy needs,” said David J. Anderson, Executive Vice President, Ameresco, Inc. “We are confident these energy conservation measures will significantly reduce energy costs and maximize savings for all schools participating in the program while enhancing the learning environment for its students and faculty.”

Under the agreement, Ameresco will provide the District with the most effective measures to reduce energy consumption and costs for heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and other energy uses in each school. Encompassing approximately $9 million in capital improvements, this project will include the installation of: energy efficient windows and doors, premium efficiency lighting, energy management controls, premium efficiency motors, variable frequency drives, heating fuel conversion from electric to gas, boiler replacements, steam trap replacements, pool HVAC improvements, and insulation on piping and insulation.

“In an age when education dollars are scarce but education outcomes are high, this will allow us to redirect funds to the students and staff.” This also helps us to teach about energy conservation because now we can walk the talk,” said Daniel G. Lowengard, Superintendent of Schools.