Northwestern signs deal to improve energy efficiency

EVANSTON - Northwestern University has entered into a long-term contract with Ameresco Inc. to help the university address its energy-related deferred maintenance challenges with no upfront costs, the company said.

As part of the agreement, Ameresco will provide ongoing energy management and related services in addition to identifying and implementing energy-efficiency upgrades for the campus's 175 buildings and central plants.

By utilizing an Energy as a Service model, the university will be able to tackle its immediate infrastructure capital needs while simultaneously funding these projects over time using energy savings, Ameresco said. The company is based in Framingham, Massachusetts.

"This ambitious, multiyear partnership will make our campuses more environmentally sustainable through reduced energy demand, which will ultimately decrease utility costs," said Craig Johnson, Northwestern's senior vice president for business and finance. "We will also now be able to draw upon Ameresco's expertise to inform our continued pursuit of more sustainable practices."

Energy efficiency projects slated for campus buildings will leverage advanced technologies to provide more efficient, better performing building systems, such as building automation, lighting, heating and cooling, and alternative energy systems, the company said.

Work to be completed by Ameresco under the agreement will directly contribute to Northwestern University's goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2030.