The University of Mount Olive is embarking on a venture that will in the long-run save the institution both energy and money.  The project came about as a result of an energy usage study and feasibility assessment conducted by Honeywell Building Solutions (HBS).  Honeywell is a global leader in energy services, working with private college, universities, and other customers to conserve energy, optimize building operations and leverage renewable energy sources.  

“The assessment showed an opportunity for UMO to optimize its operating budget through utility efficiencies, then reallocate those dollars towards capital improvements on campus,” said Dennis Wallrath, HBS General Manager.  “With the need for critical HVAC improvements in Grantham, King, Hart, and Griffin Residence Halls, implementing energy conservation measures opened a funding stream with dollars the University was already spending.”

Starting next fall, students in Grantham, King, Hart, and Griffin will notice a more comfortable living environment through the replacement of existing HVAC equipment with new energy efficient options and installing new hot water systems. Academic and administrative buildings will reap the benefits of lighting upgrades with sensors that ensure fixtures are turned off when a room is not occupied.  A computer power management system will be installed which will put University computers into a deeper sleep when they go into sleep mode. Twelve buildings will receive water retrofits including toilets, flush valves, and urinals, as well as sinks with low flow fixtures.

It will take over 4,000 man hours to complete all of the work, which has already begun.  Completion is expected by the summer of 2017.  The annual cost savings is estimated at $145,200 for a total of over $1.5 million in 10 years.   

 “Implementing energy conservation measures is very common among Universities but usually takes a back burner due to the initial investment,” said UMO Vice President for Finance John Kunst. “However, with the help of Honeywell, the University was able to create a program to implement all of our energy conservation measures and capital improvements at once so we could start reaping the benefits immediately.”  

“Sustainability is becoming a decision factor for prospective students as they evaluate colleges and universities,” said President Philip P. Kerstetter.  “The knowledge they gain throughout their K-12 schooling has set an expectation of how campuses should be operating. We want to do our part to show our students and our community that we are financially and environmentally responsible.”

For more information, visit www.umo.edu.