Add as a preferred source on Google

Additional Energy-Saving Upgrades Planned for U Arkansas

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 06/08/21

The University of Arkansas is about to embark on a new round of energy-saving upgrades for its campus. The improvements will include the addition of LED lighting; fault detection diagnostics; upgrades to HVAC; and examination of building envelope systems and other retro-commissioning work. In total, the latest project will encompass some six million square feet of facilities. The upgrades are expected to reduce annual energy expenses by $1.35 million and reduce yearly power demands by the equivalent of 1,240 homes.

Entegrity Energy Partners will undertake the project, overseen by the Arkansas Office of Energy. Entegrity is a Little Rock-based energy services company. The Office of Energy promotes energy efficiency, clean technology and sustainable practices for organizations and residents in the state.

U Arkansas Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilions
Cross-laminated timber pavilions at Vol Walker Hall on the campus of the University of Arkansas.
Photo by Chieko Hara

In 2007, the university signed onto the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment, which is now overseen by nonprofit Second Nature. Eventually, the institution established the goal of net carbon neutrality by 2040. The campus plans to reduce its carbon footprint through "a combination of sustainable building practices, energy efficiency upgrades and sustainable commuter transportation options." As of 2021, the campus carbon footprint is near 1990 emission levels and has decreased over the past decade even as both enrollment and built space have increased.

Most recently, Chancellor Joe Steinmetz joined the leaders of 74 other U.S. colleges and universities to push the Biden Administration to adopt a target of at least 50 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.

Speaking of his own institution's efforts, Steinmetz noted, "This project will not only help the University of Arkansas campus become more energy efficient, but it will also provide another example of our commitment to leading the way in supporting environmentally beneficial projects that also make good financial sense."

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • Kenall Introduces Millenium Flair Series

    In a move aimed at modernizing institutional lighting without compromising on durability or performance, Kenall has launched its new Millenium Flair series, according to the Kenall website.

  • Brightly Software, XOi Partner for New HVAC Data Solution

    Siemens company Brightly Software recently announced a partnership with data intelligence company XOi to integrate real-time HVAC system data into Brightly’s Asset Essentials CMMS, according to a news release. The integration will allow facilities more insight into HVAC system performance, health, and risk across their operations.

  • DLR Group Appoints New K–12 Education Practice Leader

    Integrated design firm DLR Group recently announced that it has named its new global K–12 Education leader, Senior Principal Carmen Wyckoff, AIA, LEED AP, according to a news release. Her teams have members in all 36 of the firm’s offices in the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Europe, and Asia.

  • concentric silhouettes of a human head

    How Physical Space Shapes the Mind: Designing for Better Learning Outcomes

    Research in environmental psychology and neuroscience increasingly suggests that the way a room is designed can influence memory, focus, or even a student's sense of belonging.

Digital Edition