Energy Efficiency  -  August 23, 2018

Stewart County reports energy efficiency success

Stewart County, a rural municipality located in central Tennessee, has successfully reduced utility and operation costs year-over-year since the implementation of a municipal energy efficiency plan in 2016. The plan covered eight local government facilities, including administrative buildings, a courthouse, and emergency medical services (EMS) facilities.

"Stewart County has saved over $28,000 in utility and operational expenses in the first year as result of this project," said Rickie D. Joiner, Stewart County Mayor, in a statement. "The lighting and HVAC systems are highly-efficient and have also improved the quality of air and light in the County’s buildings. This has been a successful partnership to realize cost savings and improve our facilities within our community."

More than 950 lighting fixtures were replaced or retrofitted with highly efficient interior and exterior LED lighting systems. HVAC and boiler control upgrades, as well as new windows and doors, were installed in multiple buildings. Advanced lighting controls were also installed to the County’s Visitors Center which serves as a community center and museum. The statement also noted that new windows, high volume fans, and upgraded lighting have dramatically improved the functionality and occupancy comfort of the Courthouse.

Ameresco implemented the $515,960 modernization project under an Energy Services Agreement and provides a guarantee of annual energy savings to the County through 2028. Funding for the project was complemented with a $250,000 Clean Tennessee Energy Grant and over $20,000 in utility rebates and rate savings.

 "Stewart County is a great case study for how small municipal governments can modernize their buildings through energy efficiency upgrades and realize a continued return on investment," said  Louis P. Maltezo, executive vice president of Amersco. "By upgrading building energy systems and installing new windows and doors, the County’s buildings are far more cost-effective to operate and maintain."

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