"Earning Energy Star is very exciting and demonstrates our commitment to savings and reducing operating costs wherever possible. Every dollar we save is critically important. The entire facilities team has done an exceptional job in this ongoing endeavor. The Energy Star recognition is a tangible symbol of our commitment to our fiduciary duty that does not come at the expense of a quality learning environment for our students and staff."

Dr. Paul Kaiser
Superintendent
Beech Grove City Schools

Beech Grove Central Elementary Achieves Energy Star (PDF)

• Beech Grove Central Elementary

Central Elementary, Beech Grove IN

• Awarded the ENERGY STAR in 2011
• 36% more energy efficient
• 106 metric tons of annual greenhouse gas eliminated

Challenge

Originally constructed in 1928 with additions in 1957, 1976 and 1998, Central Elementary had 32-year old steam boilers sized for a building three times larger than needed and past their useful life. Heating and air conditioning presented consistent problems with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees common throughout the building. Also, unit ventilators servicing classrooms were very loud creating a strain to hear for teachers and for students seated near the units.

Result

Performance Services recommended solutions that provide quiet, comfortable classrooms. Utility bill savings of $24,076 were also achieved after the first year of operation and the elementary school achieved ENERGY STAR certification in August of 2011.

ENERGY AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT NEEDS AND SOLUTIONS

Room Temperatures - Installed high efficiency boilers and hot water pumps. A web-based digital controls system with graphical workstation maintains temperatures within two degrees of setpoint.

Indoor Air Quality - Ensures 15 CFM of fresh air is introduced per occupant.

Air Distribution - Installed new vertical air handling units in classrooms to provide quality air distribution and significantly reduce noise levels.

Humidity Levels - Installed humidity sensors in strategic locations for dehumidication sequences.

Operational Savings - $140,429 per year