Pierce Middle School, Milton High Receive Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Before students returned to the classroom this fall, both the and auditoriums received energy efficiency upgrades, as new LED light bulbs were installed thanks to a $6,200 grant from NSTAR.

The grant allowed the purchase of 160 18-watt bulbs to replace the existing 120-watt bulbs at both schools. The Pierce received 90 new lights and the High School received 70 new bulbs, according to Consolidated Facilities Director Bill Ritchie.

The new light bulbs are expected to supply 50,000 hours of life, amassing a savings of $11,000, Ritchie estimates.

“That’s major,” said Ritchie. “That’s amazing savings.”

Ritchie is transitioning from his position as the schools facility director to the head of a new town-wide facilities department. He hopes to find more grants like the LED program to benefit other town buildings.

“In my new role with the town I’ll be looking for a lot more energy efficiency grants,” Ritchie said.