Current Projects
Energy efficiency, conservation, and sustainability come in many shapes and forms, especially in schools. Below are some of our current and on-going energy projects across Buncombe County Schools:
(Photo above: North Windy Ridge Intermediate solar array. Under installation currently.)
Renewable Energy
2.4 MW of solar PV being installed in 2021/2022 - Owen Middle, C.A. Erwin High, Enka Intermediate, Cane Creek Middle, Glen Arden Elementary, Community High, Hominy Valley Elementary, North Windy Ridge Intermediate, BCS Aquatic Center
Solar hot water systems installed - Erwin High School & AC Reynolds High School
Upgrades and Retrofits
Lighting controls – wireless occupancy/vacancy sensors, timeclocks, photo eyes
LED lighting
Upgrading building automation systems from pneumatic to DDC controls
Ongoing: HVAC replacement with high-efficiency equipment (chillers, boilers, domestic boilers, pumps and motors etc)
Existing building (HVAC and/or BAS) optimization or 'recommissioning'
Mobile unit classroom BAS thermostat installation and BAS integration
Behavior Modification
Building walk-through energy audits
Collaborative 3rd party energy audits (Duke Energy & Waste Reduction Partners)
Energy conservation awareness training/education for staff, faculty, students
Administrative Policies, Procedures & Common Practices
Summer shutdown procedures/policies
Shift or reduce use away from on-peak demand time periods when possible
Monthly data analysis and production of energy reports
Annual utility rate analysis
Utility bill auditing and obtaining credits/refunds when possible
Central HVAC temperature set point control and scheduling (BAS)