Public School Building Automation Accelerator

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER), through its Lead by Example (LBE) Initiative, has been working with state agencies for a number of years, developing and implementing clean energy projects. The Building Automation Accelerator is a new effort to upgrade, or in many facilities install for the first time, HVAC controls.

This program provides technical assistance, procurement support, implementation oversight, and financial incentives to Rhode Island Public Schools to accelerate the adoption of Building Automation Systems (BAS). Building Automation Systems can provide immediate and significant energy cost reductions, shrink public sector footprints, and support clean energy jobs, all in line with the 2021 Act on Climate legislation. These systems also provide significant operational control and flexibility to building operators and can improve building comfort and indoor air quality.

The accelerator is being supported through Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auction proceeds and federal grant funding from the Department of Energy. We will also leverage any available utility-administered energy efficiency funding for each of these projects. 

Eligible Entities:  Currently, eligibility for this program is aligned with the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) Facility Equity Initiative communities. The ten (10) communities currently eligible are: Central Falls, Providence, Pawtucket, Woonsocket, West Warwick, East Providence, North Providence, Cranston, Coventry, and Burrillville. As eligibility expands, we will update this list.

Program Application: If you are interested in participating in this program, please fill out the Program Application.