Westbury, New York

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Westbury Union Free School District Energy Performance Project exemplifies visionary leadership in sustainability and energy efficiency. Beginning in February 2022, this district-wide initiative combines energy savings with innovative funding mechanisms to achieve significant infrastructure improvements with no out-of-pocket cost to taxpayers. With an investment of $12.1 million, the project includes advanced energy solutions such as solar panel installations, LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, and control system enhancements across six schools and two administration buildings. Partnering with Energia and the Energy Service Company (ESCO) Honeywell, Westbury UFSD is setting new standards for environmentally responsible school infrastructure, providing both financial and environmental benefits to the community. This project was completed in June 2023, positioning Westbury as a model for other districts seeking sustainable growth.

HIGHLIGHTS

Under the Energy Performance Contract (EPC) framework, Westbury Union Free School District has revitalized its facilities and achieved long-term cost savings while fostering a greener learning environment. With guaranteed energy savings of at least $396,000 annually, the district leverages State Building Aid and ESSER funds to fund essential capital improvements without financial strain on the community. This strategic approach is projected to yield a 41% reduction in energy costs, reinforcing Westbury UFSD’s dedication to fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and enhancing educational environments.

Examples of Energy Conservation Measures:

  • Car Port Solar (803 kW): Installation of carport solar panels at Westbury High School provides renewable energy while offering sheltered parking for vehicles, valued at $2,209,315.

  • Roof-Mounted Solar (340.4 kW): Roof-top solar panels installed at Westbury Middle School generate sustainable energy, valued at $1,134,202.

  • Air Handling Replacement (9 Units): Replacement of aging air handling units enhances air quality and comfort, valued at $1,849,571.

  • Building Management Upgrades (8 Facilities): Advanced building management systems improve energy efficiency and control across facilities, valued at $2,296,648.

  • Boiler Plant Upgrade (4 Boilers): High-efficiency boilers replace outdated units, ensuring optimal heating and energy use, valued at $2,361,384.

The Westbury Energy Performance Project showcases the transformative potential of EPCs as a funding mechanism for school districts, supporting both immediate and long-term goals for energy conservation, financial sustainability, and enhanced learning environments. This forward-thinking initiative aligns with Westbury’s mission to create a more sustainable, resilient educational infrastructure that will benefit students, staff, and the wider community well into the future.

Project Statistics

  • PROJECT SIZE

    12.1 Million

  • PROJECTED ANNUAL SAVINGS

    $396K

  • REDUCTION IN ENERGY COSTS

    41%

  • COMPLETION DATE

    June 2023

  • ENERGY SERVICE COMPANY

    Honeywell

Testimonial: Dr. Tahira DuPree Chase, Superintendent, Westbury UFSD

A Bird’s-Eye View: Solar Carports at Westbury High School.

The partnership is so key. At the end of the day, we could have chosen anyone, but it’s the partnership and the relationship that make this initiative successful.

– Dr. Tahira DuPree Chase, Superintendent of Westbury UFSD