In collaboration with H2O Applied Technologies, Manhattan College in Riverdale launched a large-scale water and energy conservation project this spring expected to save an estimated $652,000 per year in utility costs and reduce electricity use for the institution by nearly 2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually. The project is scheduled for completion in the fall 2014 semester.
By implementing energy and water conservation measures, Manhattan College expects to conserve an estimated 6.3 million gallons of water and avoid the equivalent annual emissions from 433 passenger vehicles, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data.
“Environmental stewardship is an important part of our mission,” says Brennan O’Donnell, president of Manhattan College. “By investing in green technology, we are significantly reducing our carbon footprint and cutting our energy costs.”
The energy retrofit project will affect most areas of campus. Lighting system upgrades will take place in all administrative offices, athletic facilities and residence halls. Water saving measures, through the installation of low-flow toilets and shower heads, are expected to save the College more than 6 million gallons of water per year. H2O Applied Technologies is also upgrading heating systems on campus, by replacing or retrofitting 801 steam traps.
“Manhattan College is constantly working toward making our campus more sustainable,” says Andrew Ryan, P.E., vice president for facilities, noting various energy saving initiatives, particularly in renovation and new construction projects. “This is the first comprehensive energy project completed in Manhattan College’s 161 year history.”
To help fund this energy conservation project, Manhattan College will receive a rebate from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) for a about ten percent of the costs associated with the work. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2014.
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