The Colts Neck Township Schools district announced July 21 the launch of its $10 million Energy Savings Improvement Program Project, an initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and the learning environment for students in the district. This plan aligns with the district’s commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and providing the best possible educational experience for its students.
The program is being funded through $4 million in refunding bonds and $6 million in capital contribution. It is affecting five buildings (three schools).
The program, which will be implemented by DCO Energy, involves a range of energy conservation measures across all township facilities. The district’s investment will focus on long-term savings through advanced energy technologies, ultimately reducing operational costs and supporting its sustainability goals. Key components of the program include:
- District-wide LED lighting: The implementation of energy-efficient LED lighting throughout all schools is expected to reduce energy consumption and improve the lighting quality in classrooms, hallways, and other common spaces.
- District-wide energy management system: The installation of an advanced energy management system will allow for real-time monitoring and control of energy usage throughout the district.
- Solar power purchase agreement: 95% of the district’s on-site electricity needs are expected to be generated, providing substantial cost savings.
- Unit ventilator replacement with variable refrigerant flow: The district will replace outdated unit ventilators that will provide heating and cooling to the classrooms. This HVAC technology allows for precise control of the amount of refrigerant flowing to multiple zones within school facilities. This should allow for individualized comfort and improved efficiency.
“The new HVAC system is equipped with bipolarization that cleans the air by allowing contaminants to clump together and become larger, making it easier for them to get caught in the HVAC systems, improving indoor air quality,” said Nicholas Moretta, facilities manager.
“The unit also monitors Co2 levels and humidity. These units will provide cooling, heating, mandated fresh air, and a better breathing environment for staff and students for years to come. The energy Management system/ building management systems will allow the district to control the HVAC remotely, and work hand in hand with the energy efficiency measures.”
The implementation of the program is projected to result in substantial energy savings over time, with the potential to reduce the district’s energy consumption by up to 24%. The program is expected to pay for itself through energy savings and capital investment.
Additionally, through interactive learning tools, students will gain insight into renewable energy, smart technology, and energy conservation strategies, enhancing STEM curricula with real-world applications.
“At DCO Energy, we understand that school districts need energy solutions that are not only cost-effective but also enhance the learning environment for students and staff. Our partnership with Colts Neck Township Schools reflects our commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable, and fiscally responsible solutions,” said Valerie Moran, senior vice president, DCO Energy. “This ESIP project will provide long-term savings, improve air quality and comfort, and introduce students to real-world applications of energy efficiency and sustainability.”
