Tarrytowns SD Moves Forward on Energy Retrofit

The Union Free School District of the Tarrytowns will undergo an energy audit and retrofit that could save millions in energy costs over the next 18 years.

Ameresco Inc., a leading energy efficiency and renewable energy company, announced this week it had entered into an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) with the TUFSD. Ameresco will provide energy efficiency upgrades to the Sleepy Hollow High School, Sleepy Hollow Middle School, John Paulding Elementary School, and the District’s administration building.

"Generally it's a win-win for us. At the same time were time we're saving on energy costs, we're reducing our carbon footprint," said John Staiger, Jr., Assistant Superintendent for Business at TUFSD.

Ameresco will specifically target lighting system improvements, lighting controls, infiltration reduction, steam trap repair, insulation and boiler replacements. The boilers, two units that will be installed at John Paulding School, are a huge boon for the district.

"When you put in that new boiler we'll have tremendous efficiencies," Staiger said. "The installation comes at no cost to taxpayers."

TUFSD is expected to save more than $2.5 million over the course of the 18-year project, which will require no upfront capital costs. Instead, Ameresco is paid out of the savings the district will realize. Over the next 14 years, annual savings will fluctuate from $104,000 to $177,000, with Ameresco receiving no more than the annual savings realized by the district.

With the final approval of the New York State Education Department, which could come this month, the $1.2 million project will begin.

"The School Board worked very hard for this," Staiger said. "It's a great step to take moving forward."