Lead by Example: Rhode Island College completes first phase of campus-wide energy efficiency project

Rhode Island College, serving over 9,000 students in Providence, has recently completed the first phase of a two-year $14 million project to upgrade 41 buildings and campus infrastructure. The total project is expected to save more than $1,600,000 in energy costs annually for the next 15 years.

Infrastructure upgrades and energy conservation measures include:

• LED lighting
• Energy management systems
• Central plant improvements
• Variable frequency drives
• Water conservation measures
• Building weatherization
• Energy efficiency motors
• Demand control ventilation
• Transformer replacements

These upgrades not only provide energy savings, but also contribute to creating more comfortable and effective teaching and learning environments.

Last spring, Rhode Island College was selected as a 2017 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School as result of its environmental, health and wellness efforts.

The State's Lead by Example initiative promotes the adoption of clean energy measures across public sector facilities and state agencies. State and municipal employees are helping to reduce energy costs and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, consistent with Rhode Island's economic, energy and environmental goals.