by Brianna Crandall — December 11, 2020 — Energy efficiency and renewable energy company Ameresco and Grants Pass School District 7 in Southern Oregon recently announced that they have entered into an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) to implement upgrades at 13 locations across the district. The district serves nearly 6,000 students across 10 campuses.
After unsuccessful attempts at voter-approved bonds, the district decided to pursue alternate paths to achieve needed upgrades at their schools. Securing a low-interest financing rate has motivated Grants Pass to complete lighting; heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC); and building envelope upgrades across the district.
Utilizing an ESPC and third-party financing, the district can complete upgrades and pay for them over time, aided by utility incentives and reimbursement programs as well as energy savings, explains Ameresco.
Grants Pass Chief Finance and Operations Officer Sherry Ely stated:
We selected Ameresco for their flexibility in choosing the most efficient and best value equipment and solutions for our district. The Ameresco team presented options for upgrading interior and exterior lighting at all schools, and HVAC and roofing at selected locations.
Ameresco Executive Vice President Lou Maltezos commented:
Ameresco is proud to partner with this community-focused school district. Taking advantage of the low interest rates currently available, our team is helping the district achieve their infrastructure improvement needs while strengthening the safety of their students and staff.
Framingham, MA-based Ameresco is an independent provider of comprehensive services, energy efficiency, infrastructure upgrades, asset sustainability and renewable energy solutions for businesses and organizations throughout the US, Canada and the UK. Ameresco’s sustainability services include upgrades to a facility’s energy infrastructure and the development, construction and operation of renewable energy plants.
Ameresco has successfully completed energy-saving, environmentally responsible projects with federal, state and local governments, healthcare and educational institutions, housing authorities, and commercial and industrial customers.
