COD Saves More than $142K with Energy Efficiency Improvements

College of DuPage Saves More than $142K with Energy Efficiency Improvements

Project Incorporates Siemens Technology, Partially Funded Through ComEd Incentive Programs

With an eye on energy efficiency and sustainability, College of DuPage recently upgraded HVAC systems controls in several buildings on the Glen Ellyn, Ill. campus.

The project, which featured implementation of the Siemens Green Migration program, was partially funded through ComEd’s energy efficiency incentive programs. Six buildings, including COD’s Student Resource Center, Homeland Security Education Center, Homeland Security Training Institute, Campus Maintenance Center, McAninch Arts Center and Student Services Center, received HVAC system automation hardware and software platform upgrades.

With project upgrades valued at approximately $189,951, the College was able to realize savings of about $142,463 (roughly 80 percent) through ComEd’s incentive programs.

“Not only was the project good for the campus, as it improved our overall energy efficiency, but the availability of these incentives enabled the College to realize significant savings,” said College of DuPage President Dr. Brian Caputo. “We are grateful for COD’s Facilities Department staff and our partners at Siemens as well as ComEd in bringing fiscal and environmental responsibility together for this impressive undertaking.”

Designed for long-lasting reliability and energy benefits, Siemens technology employs building automation and energy optimization reprogramming. Determining the scope of the project, Siemens and College of DuPage representatives worked to identify the best automation options to reduce the campus’ energy spending significantly, through greener, more sustainable operations.

“The Siemens Green Migration program can reduce annual energy spend, extend the lifespan of building systems and equipment and expand the ability to use of valuable building data,” explained Rick Rodriguez, General Manager for Chicago/Milwaukee Region at Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA. “In addition, it can maximize the benefit of the automation system investment and offer return on investment through continuous energy savings and energy rebates while helping to ensure a safe, healthy environment.”

“Prior to this project, the College employed this technology in its recently-renovated Institutional Resource Center,” said COD Energy/Project Manager Chris Wosachlo. “Expanding this equipment and software to our other buildings improves the College’s overall energy efficiency. That, coupled with the subsequent cost savings, is a big win for the institution.”

While the installation and implementation are complete, the project will continue with both COD Facilities Department staff and Siemens tracking energy consumption metrics to ensure all savings persist over time.

College of DuPage is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Serving approximately 21,000 students each term, College of DuPage is the largest public community college in the state of Illinois. The College grants seven associate degrees and offers more than 170 career and technical certificates in over 50 areas of study.