Regional ReportsEast

Schools Reduce Energy Use With Performance Agreement

CHATHAM, Va. - Schools are continuing to look for ways to reduce their energy consumption while maximizing learning environments. Pittsylvania County Schools is leading the way with its decision to engage in a Performance Agreement for Comfort from Trane (PACTâ„¢), a package of products and services customized to specific building requirements, to deliver significant energy, water, and operating cost reductions.

Energy savings achieved through the performance agreement help pay for the school district's facility enhancements and renovations included in the contract. The Pittsylvania school system's annual energy savings total more than $300,000; initial operational savings totaled $19,000.

As part of the planned renovation, the manufacturer said it will upgrade and provide the following:

15 Tracer Summit building automation systems (bas) to control climate, lighting, energy consumption, scheduling, and other building features.

19 high-efficiency watertube and condensing boilers for fast, natural, internal circulation with maximum heat transfer and operating efficiency.

Lighting upgrades in 12 buildings to reduce energy usage.

Two Series R air-cooled chillers for comfort water cooling systems.

Four variable-frequency drives to control pumps and fan motors while maximizing efficiency and energy savings.

Maintenance and repair services including testing, balancing, and commissioning.

IMPROVEMENTS ALREADY

"We're already experiencing improvements in the comfort level of our classrooms," said Don Johnson, assistant superintendent for business, Pittsylvania County. "Providing students with a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment is critical to our success and the success of our students."

"All 20 school buildings in Pittsylvania County will benefit from reduced energy and maintenance costs while improving the long-term sustainability of the school facilities," said John Hawker, account manager, Existing Building Solutions for Trane. "PACT offers schools energy-saving solutions that create high-performance learning environments, sustainable schools, and responsible budget and asset management."

Trane said it has been serving Pittsylvania County Schools for nearly 20 years, and serving education customers for more than 50 years.

For more information, visit www.trane.com.

Publication date: 07/03/2006

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