Beaufort, S.C., is partnering with Johnson Controls to complete a citywide performance infrastructure and conservation project that’s expected to generate $5.4 million in savings over 15 years. The initiative, which was announced in late April, will also reduce the city’s overall carbon footprint, energy usage and water consumption. The infrastructure upgrades are part of Beaufort’s overall City Building Program.

The one-year construction schedule includes conservation enhancements in city buildings and parks. Major elements include new smart building automation systems; solar photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight directly into electricity; an advanced automation chilled water system to cool buildings more efficiently and improve occupant comfort; extensive LED lighting retrofits and lighting controls upgrades; upgraded security and access control systems; water efficiency retrofits; as well as additional HVAC, electrical and mechanical work.

The $3.1 million improvement plan was made possible through an energy savings performance contract with Johnson Controls. Through the pact, the utility and operational savings from the energy conservation measures are guaranteed to cover the costs of the work without the need for additional funding or capital expenditures.

“The financial arrangement provided by Johnson Controls ensures the cost of the projects are paid through the energy savings achieved over the contract term,” says William Prokop, city manager of Beaufort. “In the process, we will provide a cleaner, safer environment, reduce energy expenses, reduce our carbon output and accomplish considerable improvements to many of our facilities in a fiscally responsible manner.”

“Beaufort is committed to serving its citizens and businesses with a low cost of living, reasonable taxes and exceptional public services, but it can often be challenging to fund these endeavors,” says Mary-Suzanne Powell, area general manager at Johnson Controls. “We have a long history helping cities overcome these financial challenges, using customized financial structures, technology, and infrastructure solutions to enable more than 3,000 major performance infrastructure projects in North America alone.”

Go here for more information on Johnson Controls.

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