Dunkirk City School District NYSERDA Study

The Dunkirk City School District wanted to utilize NYSERDA’s Clean Green Schools Initiative Program to assess energy efficiency measures and clean energy technologies at its facilities. This initiative provides funding for eligible Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 schools to evaluate energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies that help reduce annual energy, operational, and maintenance costs.

Wendel assisted the District in evaluating potential upgrades through a detailed energy study of eight buildings totaling 478,820 SF. This study identified possible cost savings, incentives, and greenhouse gas reductions, which will aid in making informed decisions regarding future project design and implementation.

The District is in the early stages of planning a capital improvement program encompassing all buildings, prioritizing energy measures. Wendel collected historic energy consumption data for the eight selected buildings to establish an energy usage baseline. On-site investigations documented existing conditions and identified energy-saving opportunities. Wendel developed energy savings modeling calculations for each Energy Conservation Measure (ECM) using this data and existing mechanical and electrical system drawings. We also collaborated with vendors and applied internal estimates based on previous construction projects to generate cost estimates. We also performed energy calculations and economic analyses to evaluate these measures’ feasibility, costs, potential energy impact, and economic analysis of the return on investment.

Upgrades to the building envelope and clean cooling systems will enhance occupant comfort at a lower cost. The HVAC controls allow for a more dynamic, customizable, and balanced system, which leads to more uniform building conditioning. Retro-commissioning ensures that systems communicate effectively with one another, preventing conflicts during transitional months. The solar energy system will provide renewable energy, helping to reduce the District’s greenhouse gas emissions. Our team assisted the District with utilizing NYSERDA funding through the Clean Green Schools program to cover the entire cost of the study, $79,400.

Engaging in an energy study like this is incredibly beneficial. Having a knowledgeable team like Wendel ensures a smooth process and meaningful results. For us it was a no brainer to accept the NYSERDA funding to get the study completed. The bonus was that we already had a working relationship with Wendel. That helped us get going quickly. The transition to a clean energy environment is the path we are on. The ability to do it more efficiently and effectively having the study completed is priceless.

– Timothy L. Abbey, Director of Facilities III, Dunkirk City School District