Contact:  Butch Simmons
Phone:  336-373-2329

City of Greensboro Implements Energy Savings Performance Contract

GREENSBORO, NC -- (January 27, 2009) -- The City of Greensboro has reached a contract agreement with Pepco Energy Services of Arlington, Virginia, on a $6.1 million energy efficiency project. Under terms of the contract, energy usage will be reduced by 28 percent with energy conservation measures to be installed in 46 City-owned buildings. Potential energy savings is estimated to be more than $6.5 million over the next 13 years. Money saved on energy costs will actually pay for the new equipment and installation.

The multi-year contract calls for Pepco to install energy efficient lighting, replace old chillers, update building automation systems, commission and rebalance heating and air-conditioning systems, and install water saving fixtures in many City-owned facilities. 

“A lot of this equipment has needed to be replaced for years, but we haven’t had the money to do it,” states Mitchell Johnson, City Manager.  “Now, through our contract with Pepco Energy Services, the City will have over $6 million in new equipment and infrastructure and will reduce the City’s energy usage by 28 percent.” 

The contract provides solar energy for space heating and hot water systems at the Melvin Municipal Office Building and at five City Fire stations.  And the project includes an energy awareness program to train building occupants on efficient practices.

The City of Greensboro’s carbon footprint will be reduced each year by eliminating 11 million pounds of carbon dioxide, the equivalent of planning more than 1,700 acres of trees.

The project will be managed by Pepco Energy Services, but much of the work will be performed by local companies, including a commitment of 10 percent minority contract representation.  Construction is due to begin in February 2009 with an estimated completion date of February 2010.

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The City of Greensboro works in partnership with the community to build an increased quality of life for all residents by fostering an environment where inclusion, diversity, and trust are valued.  As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a dedicated professional staff of 2700 employees who maintain four core values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect.  The City of Greensboro is governed by a council-manager form of government where a mayor and eight council members act as the legislative body.  For more information on the City of Greensboro, please visit us online at www.greensboro-nc.gov.