May 16, 2018

Texas A&M International University begins energy efficiency project

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) announced the beginning of construction on a $9.7 million comprehensive campus-wide energy efficiency project intended to streamline facility operations, encourage sustainable behavior and improve the quality of life for students and staff.

"At TAMIU, maroon is the new green, and we are committed to reducing our reliance on natural resources, increasing operational efficiencies and fostering environmental awareness among our students, faculty, and staff, as well as the greater Laredo community," said Dr. Pablo Arenaz, President, TAMIU,  in a statement.

Laredo-based TAMIU, a member of The Texas A&M University System, is partnering with Schneider Electric on the project, which guarantees nearly $15 million in energy savings over the life of the project. The statement noted that the project "is being delivered through an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) which uses projected energy savings to pay for facility improvements over time." Savings are expected to come from energy conservation measures including improving the university’s irrigation system; converting HVAC equipment to variable refrigerant flow, reducing the need for frequent maintenance as well as equipment footprint and noise; interior and exterior LED lighting upgrades with occupancy sensors and automated dimming controls, and utility meter upgrades with user-friendly energy dashboards.

The project is also expected to make a significant environmental impact by removing nearly 67,000 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere. Construction is expected to be complete by fall 2019.

TAMIU will also be the first higher education institution to adopt Schneider Electric’s Conserve My Planet program, which, according to the statement, "engages students, professors, and staff in innovative ways, encouraging them to take an active role in using energy more efficiently on campus and at home." TAMIU will implement projects that challenge students in energy efficiency and sustainability subjects, supporting skill development and awareness of environmental issues, leveraging tools and data analysis from Schneider Electric.