DALLAS, TEXAS, May 29, 2014 -- Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management, has completed a $4.7-million facility improvement project with the city of Kirksville, Mo., as part of an energy savings performance contract (ESPC). Expected to provide the city more than $340,000 in annual savings, the technological upgrades will dramatically improve energy efficiency, while improvements to the metering infrastructure will provide essential upgrades to billing and utility services of city government -- all paying for itself within a 15-year period.
The most significant project component is the replacement of the city's aging water metering system. Schneider worked with the city and its utility building staff to transition more than 7,000 new residentialand commercial meters. The city of Kirksville historically had problems with water loss within the system; the new meters will allow the city to limit rate increases and make the billing process more accurate, which will directly benefit city residents. To help ensure long-term accuracy, the company is also providing ongoing support via a Revenue Protection Plan, in which monthly billing data is being monitored to identify and report on alarming trends, as well as help prioritize the city's water meter and water distribution maintenance.
Additionally, Schneider replaced the HVAC system in Kirksville City Hall. This aging system was the biggest energy and maintenance drain for the city, but prior to the ESPC with the company, the city lacked the budgetary means to retrofit the outdated and failing equipment. The installation of the new HVAC system, which includes compressors, variable volume and temperature (VVT) boxes and ducts, will solve the comfort, maintenance and efficiency issues associated with the old system. Other project elements include comprehensive renovations to the lighting systems across the city's facilities, as well as retrofitted building automation systems.
Accordingly, Schneider worked with U.S. Bancorp to provide a local financing source for a rate below 2 percent over 10 years. ESPCs help publicly-funded entities make capital improvements over longer payback periods. Funded by third-party financing, ESPCs also offer many long-term benefits such as improved facility efficiency, occupant comfort, financial management, and environmental protection. Typically, new, more efficient equipment and upgraded facility automation systems maximize energy efficiency and generate utility savings.
See also: "Schneider Electric signs $5.7M energy-efficiency project with Texas city"
About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is a global specialist in energy management with operations in more than 100 countries and offers integrated solutions across multiple market segments, including leadership positions in Utilities & Infrastructure, Industries & Machines Manufacturers, Non-residential Building, Data Centres & Networks and in Residential. Focused on making energy safe, reliable, efficient, productive and green, the Group's 150,000 plus employees achieved sales of 24 billion euros in 2013, through an active commitment to help individuals and organizations make the most of their energy. For more information, visit www.schneider-electric.com.
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