AKRON: The University of Akron will make energy conservation and efficiency improvements in 39 buildings with help from $60 million in financing from the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority.
The authority has approved the state-backed bonds for the project.
The university selected Johnson Controls and the Brewer Garrett Co. to implement the plan.
Campus-wide improvements include security lighting upgrades on parking decks; electric, natural gas, domestic water, high temperature heating water, chilled water meters, demand-response monitoring equipment and water-conservation measures.
Other improvements at individual buildings include interior/exterior lighting, mechanical upgrades, building and window improvements, utility metering, building automation and energy-efficient laboratory improvements.
The university undertook the project to comply with state rules calling for a 20 percent reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions at public institutions.
Annual guaranteed energy and operational savings will exceed $6 million. Projected annual greenhouse gas emission reductions include more than 30.9 million tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to removing emissions from about 5,660 passenger cars.