Every school district faces the challenge of maintaining efficient facilities while managing tight budgets and evolving sustainability objectives. Energia supports districts by providing the technical insight and project leadership needed to move initiatives forward with confidence.
Serving as a Technical Owner’s Representative, our team oversees energy-focused projects from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with district goals, financial accountability, and long-term value. Through strategic upgrades and renewable energy solutions, we help districts invest wisely in their facilities and their future.
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Keeping Our Schools and Towns Affordable: Leading the Way on Energy
With energy costs in the Northeast continuing to climb, schools and municipalities are facing increasing pressure on operating budgets. David Newman, VP of Engineering at Energia, explains how leaders can take control by focusing on energy use within their own buildings. Reducing waste and improving efficiency can help stabilize utility expenses and free up funding for classrooms, student resources, and essential facility upgrades.
David Newman, PE, CEM, CEA, GBE, LEED-AP, VP of Engineering, Energia
By using building data such as Energy Use Intensity, schools and towns can pinpoint common sources of waste, including outdated lighting and HVAC systems running during unoccupied hours. David emphasizes that pairing energy improvements with transparent measurement and verified savings builds trust with school boards and communities while creating more predictable budgets over time.
Energia Wins Platinum Engineering Award for School District of Philadelphia Modernization Project
Energia proudly served as the owner’s representative for the $125 million revitalization of eight Philadelphia elementary schools funded entirely by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The work modernized original heating systems and added central cooling and ventilation across schools ranging from 60 to over 110 years old.
Using the Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA) program, Energia and NORESCO delivered a turnkey, fixed-cost solution that was completed on budget and ahead of schedule. Parallel design and construction teams, ultra-efficient condensing boilers, and digital control systems ensured comfort, energy efficiency, and heating systems activated before the school year began.
The initiative created healthier learning environments, supported local communities with 47.7% Minority and/or Women-owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) participation, and offered a scalable model for other districts to use federal funding for large-scale upgrades. This recognition showcases how collaboration, innovation, and a community‑centered approach produce lasting impact.
Project Statistics
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Project Size: $125 Million
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Guaranteed Energy Savings (Annual): $167,390
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Project Type: Guaranteed Energy Savings Agreement (GESA)
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M/WBE Participation: 47.7%
Discover More:
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Get the full story on the revitalization – Read the complete article here.
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See the work behind the impact – View the detailed project case study.
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Celebrate the award – Check out Energia’s Platinum Award announcement.
Energia and Client, Mt. Sinai School District,
Featured in Business View Magazine
Energia is proud to be featured in Business View Magazine alongside our valued client, Mount Sinai Union Free School District (UFSD), highlighting the district’s forward-thinking leadership and commitment to innovation.
The article spotlights Superintendent Dr. Christine Criscione, whose leadership has fostered an environment where impactful projects strengthen learning spaces, empower educators, and prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow, while honoring Mount Sinai’s longstanding community values. It also recognizes the district leaders who bring this vision to life across grade levels, including Deputy Superintendent Dr. Peter Branscombe, High School Principal Peter Pramataris, and Middle School Principal Christopher Elsesser.
Dr. Christine Criscione
Superintendent of Schools, Mount Sinai Union Free School District
In collaboration with Mount Sinai UFSD and Ameresco, Energia initiated, designed, and managed a 100% self-funded energy modernization project designed to enhance facilities, improve reliability, and support long-term fiscal responsibility. Key project outcomes include:
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Project size: $10.3 million
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Estimated annual savings: $498,654
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Projected energy use reduction: 63%
Together, we are creating spaces where students and educators can thrive today and in the future.
Energia Presenting at the 2026 CASBO Workshop
This March, Energia will be sharing insights at the Connecticut Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) Workshop in Plantsville, Connecticut.
The session, How School Infrastructure Investment Creates a Ripple Effect of Economic Growth, will explore how Cheshire Public Schools leveraged an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) to complete more than $10 million in energy-efficient infrastructure improvements through a budget-neutral approach.
Justin Benoit, CEM, Energia’s Director of Project Delivery, along with Cheshire Public Schools, will discuss how reinvesting energy savings can extend beyond building upgrades, supporting local jobs, strengthening community assets, and contributing to long-term fiscal health.
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When: Friday, March 13, 2026
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Where: Aqua Turf Club | Plantsville, CT
2026 CASBO Workshop
Energia will be attending the Connecticut Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) Timely Topic Workshop on February 6, 2026.
This event brings together school business leaders to explore timely topics impacting today’s districts and provides a valuable opportunity to connect and exchange insights.
Energia looks forward to engaging with district leaders to discuss how strategic energy planning can support operational efficiency, long-term sustainability goals, and responsible budgeting. Kendra McQuilton, CEO will be in attendance and welcome the opportunity to connect.
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When: February 6, 2026
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Where: Plantsville, Connecticut
