Texas A&M University has accomplished the following energy efficiency improvements and associated cost reduction over the last seven years (FY02 through FY09):

• Reduced overall energy use per gross square foot (GSF) on campus by 33% (from 364 mBtu/GSF to 243 mBtu/GSF)
• Reduced total campus energy consumption by 23% while GSF served increased by 16%
• Achieved $90 million cost avoidance as a result of energy efficiency improvements
• Improved overall utility plant operating efficiency by 40%
• Improved building operating efficiency by 6% per GSF
  
  

The following initiatives were implemented since 2002 to achieve these results.

Utility production and distribution improvements:

• Optimized utility plant operating efficiency including improved make/buy decision-making process for electrical power generation
• Installed new high efficiency chillers and boilers to replace aging plant equipment and upgrade capacity
• Implemented predictive/preventive maintenance program and key performance indicators to minimize system downtime and maximize operating efficiency
• Upgraded plant monitoring and control systems to improve capabilities and response time

Building operational improvements:

• Upgraded building automation system (BAS) monitoring and control capabilities to optimize HVAC and lighting systems
• Installed 1200 utility meters in buildings with automated data collection to achieve accurate consumption measurement and monitoring
• Implemented new utility rate model and billing process starting in FY06, providing more accurate billing and automated reporting capabilities
• Implemented HVAC scheduling and space temperature setback during unoccupied times
• Implemented campus-wide space temperature standard for occupied and unoccupied times
• Completed building energy audits and implemented HVAC and lighting efficiency upgrades
• Ongoing building retro-commissioning program to optimize operation of building energy systems

Additional efficiency improvements in progress:

• Combined Heat and Power Upgrade Project ($70.25 million) will improve plant operating efficiency, capacity and reliability.  Major equipment startup in July 2011 with resulting energy savings to pay for debt service.
• Satellite Utility Plant 1 (SUP1) Chiller Upgrade ($9.6 million) will add capacity by replacing older, inefficient chillers with 7,500 tons of new high efficiency chillers.  Equipment startup in June 2010 will cost avoid $500k/yr.
• Plant Optimization Program (POP) being implemented in 2010 to provide dynamic, real-time feedback for better utility plant optimization
• Initiated energy stewardship program in campus buildings in FY10 to improve building operating efficiency through increased awareness of energy conservation and efficiency