Solar PV and Energy Upgrades Coming to Cairo-Durham Central School District in Partnership with Energia and Johnson Controls

Cairo-Durham Central School District has begun construction on a comprehensive energy efficiency initiative in partnership with Energia (www.energiasaves.com), a leading energy engineering and design consultancy, and Johnson Controls, a recognized energy service company (ESCO). The project is designed to lower energy costs, improve building systems, and provide long-term facility upgrades that benefit students, staff, and the community. The energy project will be funded through an Energy Performance Contract (EPC) which will not impact school district taxes.

“The team at Energia is excited to lead the Cairo-Durham Central School District in this comprehensive energy-efficiency upgrade.”

— Kendra McQuilton, CEO

“As a leader in managing successful energy engineering and design projects, we take pride in acting as a technical owner’s representative and guiding school districts through often complex energy-savings and energy-generation initiatives.” said Kendra McQuilton, Energia CEO.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with Energia on this significant Energy Performance Contract. This project, with its primary focus on a new solar array, is a major step forward for our district’s long-term financial health and our commitment to sustainability. By leveraging an EPC, we can make critical infrastructure improvements without any upfront capital costs to our taxpayers,” said Cairo-Durham Central School District Superintendent Michael Wetherbee. “The energy savings generated by the solar panels will not only fund the project itself but will also provide a predictable and substantial revenue stream for years to come. These savings can then be reinvested directly into our students, whether that means enhancing academic programs, updating classroom technology, or supporting new initiatives.

This EPC is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a powerful educational tool. It provides a tangible example for our students of how science, economics, and environmental stewardship intersect. We are building a more resilient, sustainable future for our community, and we are showing our students that we are committed to being responsible stewards of our resources.”

The initiative includes a variety of targeted energy-saving measures across district facilities including a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) system, upgrades to heating systems, water conservation enhancements, window performance improvements, and optimized boiler operations.

Energia is serving as the district’s technical owner’s representative, overseeing the project to ensure it meets performance goals and delivers the best value. Johnson Controls is providing engineering expertise, installation, and ongoing support to implement the recommended energy measures.

About Energia

Energia USA, Inc. (Energia) is a leader in managing successful energy engineering and design projects. The company’s proven approach and depth of experience servicing the unique needs of public agencies ensures a smooth process, quality control, and maximum financial return. Founded in 1998, Energia has successfully completed more than 150 public energy projects across the country, producing over $1 billion in energy-saving improvements.

For more information, visit https://www.energiasaves.com.