BCPS announces energy savings from new program

Botetourt Public Schools have been able to realize savings due to energy improvements made through their association with the Virginia Division of Mineral and Mining Division of Energy. Johnson Controls has made the improvements over the past year in the program Botetourt County Public Schools implemented in 2017. The cost savings were announced at the regular school board meeting on Oct. 11.

The program guaranteed up to 7.6 million dollars in savings over 15 years. Over the past year as Johnson Controls has installed the new energy saving features reduction in cost is already being realized. The improvements include Lighting Upgrades, Water conservation, Boiler replacements, Duct sealing, Building Envelope, Kitchen Hood Controls, Walk-In Cooler Controls, Operations and Maintenance, Reduction in heating water.  “So far, the replacements have brought over $119,00,494 in savings,” said John Busher. HVAC improvements should reduce energy costs even more, he noted.

The report noted theses savings reflect environmental benefits that are equal to reduced greenhouse gas emissions of 172 cars, or 90 homes or carbon sequestered by 978 acres of forest.

by Cathy Benson and photo by Cathy Benson