- 1 read
As LEDs (light emitting diodes) garner greater presence in the energy efficiency market, universities across America are taking advantage of the savings the new technology has to offer. Several large schools have led the way towards sustainable energy through energy reduction projects.
Schools such as Arizona State University, University of Central Florida and Rutgers University are shining examples of how institutions have recognized this cost-efficient green investment. By converting fixtures to LED lights, these universities have seen an average savings of 70 percent on their electricity bill for the converted sections and drastically reduced their CO2 emissions in the process.
Central Florida and Arizona State both retrofitted parking structures that have already seen massive energy savings. Central Florida replaced 500 fixtures, representing a $42,000 annual savings for the school, along with preventing emissions equal to 336,000 pounds of CO2 per year. Arizona State converted 2,000 traditional fixtures to LEDs, leading to an average annual savings of $127,000 and 1 million pounds of carbon emissions.
Rutgers recently installed a 68-by-38-foot LED display for its football stadium. This retrofit is part of a $102 million expansion of the stadium and is a prime example of the versatility of LED technology.
However, sectors that stand to save the most from the new lights are hospitals and commercial buildings; but it is refreshing to see education getting in ahead. This green investment allows organizations to save money and the environment, while receiving warranted publicity for being some of the first in the much-anticipated clean energy revolution.
The University of Louisville is also undergoing a massive green upgrade through a comprehensive, $21.7 million energy efficiency project. The endeavor will be campus-wide, incorporating heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) supply advances, in addition to lighting retrofits and water supply and conservation ventures. The project is estimated to cut annual energy costs by $2.3 million, and dramatically reduce the school’s carbon footprint.
Universities across the U.S. are recognizing the value of green investments, both for their financial incentives as well as reduced energy consumption. These universities are taking positive steps towards reducing America’s energy dependence and gross national debt.
