Project Supports Governor Cuomo's Build Smart NY Initiative, Helps Binghamton U Reduce Annual Costs by $370,000

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) today recognized Binghamton University, State University of New York, with a High Performance Building plaque for exceptionally high energy efficiency at its Engineering and Science Building. The building is rated to perform 44 percent above the energy code, and energy efficiency measures save $370,000 in costs annually.

This project supports Gov. Cuomo's ambitious Build Smart NY initiative to increase energy efficiency in state buildings by 20 percent in seven years by strategically accelerating priority improvements in energy performance. This initiative will save millions of dollars for taxpayers and create thousands of jobs while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

NYSERDA's President and CEO Francis J. Murray Jr. presented the High Performance Building plaque today to Binghamton University President Harvey G. Stenger at an event in the rotunda of the Innovative Technologies Complex, 85 Murray Hill Road, Vestal.

"We have made energy efficiency a priority in our state-owned buildings, and this Binghamton University building is a model for other academic institutions to follow," said Gov. Andrew Cuomo. "The energy savings from these efforts make more funds available for the strong educational programs needed to continue to develop the innovative science and technology sector here in New York State."

NYSERDA awards High Performance Building plaques to hospitals, colleges and universities, schools, businesses and other organizations that construct or substantially renovate buildings that perform at least 30 percent above the New York State energy code. Binghamton University's Engineering and Science Building reduces annual electricity use by 1.7 million kilowatt hours, the amount of electricity consumed by 247 single-family homes annually. It also reduces annual fossil fuel use by 11,374 million MBtu, enough to heat 160 homes, and eliminates more than 1,635 tons of global-warming, greenhouse gas emissions annually.

NYSERDA awarded $479,000 to Binghamton University to help offset the incremental cost of energy efficiency measures during construction, including high-performance windows; occupancy-based lighting controls; daylighting controls to take advantage of maximum use of natural light; high-efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; the latest technology for heat recovery and humidity control; and variable speed drives and motors.

Additional renewable energy aspects of the building include passive solar and geothermal technology to augment heating and cooling.

"Our Engineering and Science Building is a shining example of how seriously Binghamton University takes its commitment to sustainability," said Stenger. "We're especially proud of this building because it is also a teaching facility that enhances our academic mission, enabling students to learn and conduct research with faculty in an energy-efficient environment."

"With this building, Binghamton University has gone well above and beyond, and should be very proud of this accomplishment, which supports Gov. Cuomo's Build Smart NY initiative to increase energy efficiency in state buildings," said Murray. "The university's success in integrating energy efficiency into the construction of this building demonstrates its clear commitment to excellence, responsible stewardship of the environment and recognition of the long-term value of energy efficiency."

Funding for the Engineering and Science Building is through NYSERDA's New Construction Program (NCP), which provides technical support to design teams and financial incentives to building owners involved in the construction of new or substantially renovated structures in New York State. NCP is a first-come, first-served program available to commercial, institutional and industrial sector customers of certain utilities. NCP incentives are paid out upon project completion and installation of approved energy efficiency measures is verified. The intent of the program is not only to improve energy efficiency and green building practices, but to effect a permanent transformation in the way buildings are designed and constructed throughout the state.

In addition to support for energy efficiency projects at the Binghamton U Engineering and Science Building, NYSERDA has previously awarded funding for energy efficiency measures at seven new East Campus dormitories; a new Collegiate Center with kitchen and dining facilities, multi-purpose rooms, computer labs, lounges and offices; and substantial renovations at the university's Recreation Center.

Gov. Cuomo's Build Smart NY Initiative will support his call for 20 percent energy efficiency in seven years by using state building energy data to prioritize projects that will deliver the greatest energy savings per dollar spent. The largest and most inefficient buildings will be addressed first and will undergo comprehensive whole-building improvements. Build Smart NY will accelerate projects that produce the greatest savings and coordinate all spending. The program will also ensure that cost-effective improvements for energy savings are considered in all the state's capital project planning.

A Build Smart NY web platform was launched that posts progress reports, case studies, energy savings, project costs and other information to the public, providing greater accountability and transparency on government spending and performance. For more information on this initiative, visit www.buildsmart.ny.gov.

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and funding to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA professionals work to protect our environment and create clean-energy jobs. NYSERDA has been developing partnerships to advance innovative energy solutions in New York since 1975.