NYSERDA and the University of Rochester with a High Performance Building Plaque last week. All for energy-saving investments. Those that will reduce energy costs by a combined $167,000 annually.

Monroe Community College’s PAC Center and the University of Rochester’s renovated Data Center. All were supported by most noteworthy $300,000 in NYSERDA incentives. Those which also helped fund the purchase and installation of advanced energy efficiency technologies.

That’s also including high performance lighting and occupancy controls. Also high efficiency fans, pumps and motors. Finally, a water-side economizer. One which uses free outdoor air to cool water. All used in data center air handling systems. I mean, that’s among other measures.

The energy savings

I mean more than 945,000 kilowatt hours. It is equivalent to the amount of electricity consumed by 137 single-family homes annually. Also it will be realized by these institutions every year for years to come.

NYSERDA High Performance Building Plaques are presented to hospitals. Also colleges and universities. Furthermore, schools, businesses and other organizations. Those that have constructed or substantially renovated buildings. Especially to perform at least 30 percent above the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code.

Monroe Community College and the University of Rochester are the 49th and 50^th recipients of the plaque, and their new buildings are rated to perform 33% and 42% above code, respectively. Other Rochester Region recipients of this award include the City of Rochester Water Authority, Roberts Wesleyan College’s Golisano Library and the YMC East Side in Penfield.

Cumulative Savings

Since 2009, NYSERDA has provided more than $6.5 million to help reduce electricity consumption by approximately 22.8 million kilowatt hours in 119 new construction projects throughout Monroe County. That’s the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of nearly 3,315 single-family homes.

NYSERDA’s New Construction Program provides assistance. First of all, to incorporate energy efficiency measures. Also, add sustainable building practices into the design, construction and operation. That’s of new or substantially renovated buildings. Green building incentives also are available to customers pursuing LEED certification. These measures are designed to save energy. Especially through reduced electricity demand. Moreover, further reduce building operating costs.

For existing facilities, NYSERDA incentives can be used for lighting retrofits. Also upgrades to motors systems. In addition, energy management systems, heating and cooling systems and other operations. Assistance also is available for energy audits. Especially to help indentify cost-effective opportunities. All to increase energy efficiency. Thereby develop plans to reduce greenhouse gas emission inventories and more.