Northbrook Park District Awarded $690,000 in ComEd Energy Efficiency Grants
Northbrook Park District is slated to receive $689,967.50 from ComEd to install energy-efficient lighting throughout district facilities and parks. In addition to covering the costs of labor and materials for lighting upgrades, projected energy savings are estimated to be $135,616 annually. These savings represent approximately 28% of the district's pre-COVID-19 electric usage in 2019.
The ComEd Energy Efficiency Program offers discounts, incentives and services for parks and recreation organizations to upgrade indoor and outdoor lighting, modernize heating and cooling systems, install energy management technology, and implement other energy efficiency opportunities. This fully funded program does not require matching funds from the district.
Lead Electric, a ComEd prequalified contractor, has been engaged to replace existing light fixtures with new reliable, resilient and energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures. Projects are scheduled to take place throughout 2022.
The following facilities and parks have been approved for this project:
• Heritage Oaks Golf Club Practice Range
• Joe Doud Administration Building
• • Meadowhill Park outdoor ice rink
• Northbrook Sports Center ice rinks and pool
• Techny Prairie Park and Fields athletic fields, skate park, batting cages and Anetsberger Golf Course
• Tower Rink
• Village Green Park and Village Green Center
According to Chris Leiner, Northbrook Park District Director of Parks & Properties, "The process of upgrading electrical fixtures to highly-efficient products at no cost to the district, combined with significant electrical cost savings for years to come are a testament to the district's environmental and financial stewardship efforts."
In addition to serving the district's mission to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship, this grant program supports several larger sustainability plans and goals. In 2013, the Northbrook Park District partnered with the village of Northbrook to develop the Northbrook Sustainability Plan. The plan calls for reducing energy at village and district facilities by 20% in 20 years. More recently, the park board of commissioners passed a resolution in 2021 in support of the village's Climate Action Plan which calls for a 12% increase in energy efficiency across the community.
For more information about Northbrook Park District, visit nbparks.org.
Since 2008, ComEd Energy Efficiency Program has saved Northern Illinois families and businesses approximately $6.7 billion on their electric bills and received recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for 12 consecutive years.