West Springfield and Columbia Gas of Massachusetts partner on energy efficiency
Westborough, MA, December 28, 2011 - Columbia Gas of Massachusetts recently presented a total of over $150,000 to the City of West Springfield for energy efficiency projects in city-owned buildings.
The City recently concluded five energy efficiency installations that were eligible for incentives and technical assistance from Columbia Gas. The funds went toward upgrades to several public schools and a municipal office building. Columbia Gas reimbursed the City $40,000 for the installation of high-efficiency triple pane windows at the West Springfield Municipal Office Building. The high-efficiency windows feature tight seals that minimize air leakage when the outside temperature varies greatly from the inside temperatures. The new windows will help maintain a warm building while saving energy.
Columbia Gas also reimbursed $116,000 to the City for upgrades that include new high-efficiency boilers and energy management systems at the Memorial and Tatham Elementary Schools, pipe insulation at West Cowing Elementary School, and the installation of a new energy management system at Mittineague Elementary School. The combined projects are expected to lower school department heating costs, as well as provide a more comfortable environment for students.
At the current market price of gas, the combined high-efficiency upgrades are estimated to save the City approximately 55,000 therms per year, which translates into an annual savings of $65,000 in heating costs.
Mayor Edward Gibson stated, “Without the partnership with Columbia Gas and their rebate program the extensive energy efficient upgrades which the town undertook over the past several years would not have happened. Not only is West Springfield saving money through the more efficient use of energy, but the town has reduced its reliance on fossil fuels and has also reduced its carbon footprint while making these energy performance upgrades.”
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