The Florence-Lauderdale Public Library in Alabama is beginning a project to modernize its energy infrastructure to run more efficiently through the implementation of a new building automation system (BAS) that gives staff better control of the existing HVAC equipment and allows them to manage it more effectively.
The Florence-Lauderdale Public Library expects to reduce energy costs by 32% and generate more than $1.5 million in energy and operational savings over the next 20 years.
The BAS will integrate with the chilled water system modifications to cut down on utility costs and extend the useful life of the HVAC equipment.
The project will be implemented by Schneider Electric, via an energy savings performance contract (ESPC). Other upgrades include a new roof with a 20-year material and labor warranty coinciding with the 20-year performance guarantee and a new Voice over IP (VoIP) system.
ESPCs are partnerships between a facility owner and an energy service company (ESCO). They allow for facility improvements that lead to energy savings with no little to no up-front capital costs. Energy clients are becoming more sophisticated and are looking for cost-effective, customized, and comprehensive energy solutions to meet their needs beyond energy efficiency upgrades, Navigant Research said in a 2020 report. “ESCO offerings have gained recognition as a valuable way for public organizations to realize sustainability mandates while meeting operational, financial, and human capital goals,” said Sasha Wedekind, research analyst with Navigant Research.
