E3 had helped the district pursue grant dollars on a number of occasions before finally securing dollars for Phase I funding to make improvements to the middle school. Building off the success of Phase I, when the need arose for a renovation project at Chisholm Trail Elementary, E3 was selected for Phase II. An initial evaluation revealed several needs and significant savings opportunities, most notably:

• • Very little, if any, control of temperature, humidity, and efficiency
  • Very difficult to troubleshoot the HVAC system
  • Inefficient and inadequate roofing and lighting

After issuing an RFQ and selecting E3, district personnel worked with E3 to fund the collective remaining $1.8 million energy-efficiency and conservation project in Phase II. Phase I was funded with a SECO grant and the district’s fund balance. Phase II was funded with the district’s fund balance solely. The scope of work included the following:

• • Phase I: HVAC improvements and energy management control installation at the middle school campus
  • Phase II: HVAC improvements, energy management control installation, roofing and lighting upgrades (LED) at Chisholm Trail Elementary School

Despite numerous weather days over the course of the summer, the HVAC and roof replacement were completed before the start of the school year. Although it was a non-guarantee project, E3 identified additional training opportunities for district staff that have resulted in lower energy usage and a better learning and working environment for students and staff.