PROJECT TIMELINE
- ESIP RFP advertised on July 24, 2020
- Energy Savings Plan approved on May 18, 2021
- Contract approved on May 27, 2021
- Project started July 1, 2021; targeted completion is March 2024
- Financing approved on July 29, 2021
ANTICIPATED SAVINGS
- $120 Million over the 20-year term of the contract
- $4.5 Million during the Construction Phase
BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS
The project scope is comprised of energy conservation measures (ECMs) the align with the District’s goals and objectives. The wide range of proposed building improvements includes the following:
- New building automation system and centralized enterprise management system
- LED lighting retrofits, both inside and out
- Replacing aging boiler plants in 13 schools
- Building envelope and insulation upgrades
- Chiller replacements and HVAC upgrades
- Water conservation upgrades
- Solar power purchase agreement throughout the District
- Combined heat and power units
- STEAM camps for elementary and High School students
Project Overview
The Newark Board of Education partnered with Johnson Controls (JCI), the leading energy services provider, to develop and execute a $95 million Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP) that will modernize 60 school facilities to be state-of-the-art and upgrade classrooms with the light, heat, space, air, and technology needed to learn and compete globally. ESIP projects are entirely paid for through the energy and operational cost savings generated by the project eliminating the need for the District to fund the improvements through budgetary contributions.
Renewable Energy and Onsite Power Projects
Around 17 MW of solar panels will be installed throughout the District’s facilities through a power purchase agreement whereby the District receives power at an extremely reduced rate while using renewable sources to provide energy for the buildings. Combined heat and power units will be installed at Science Park HS and First Avenue School to provide onsite power generation and a level of resiliency within the buildings. A wind turbine will be installed at Schools Stadium to provide lighting and battery storage.
Environmental Impact
The Newark Board of Education will also reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint by reducing more than 17,500 metric tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to reducing the emissions produced by more than 3,800 passenger cars, planting 21,400 acres of forest and 2,100 homes’ annual energy use.
Engaging the Students and Community
The partnership also includes a forum for raising energy awareness among your students, teachers, staff, and the community. It is based on the STEAM framework to promote realistic, life-long learning skills. This approach better prepares students for post-secondary education and gives them the skills and knowledge they will need to be successful innovators in a technology-driven workforce.