Colleges trim energy costs

Through PG&E's self-generation incentive program and energy efficiency programs, the district is on track to receive nearly $1 million in rebates for its energy efficiency work and the cogeneration systems.

In the year 2000, the district, which includes the College of San Mateo, Skyline College and Caqada College, was spending about $2.2 million on energy costs each year.

The district also faced the possibility of having to replace much of the infrastructure built in the 1960s - such as heating and cooling systems - that was nearing the end of its useful life. This would have cost the district more than $40 million.

However, the district chose a more cost-effective route: Upgrading selected aging equipment rather than replace entire systems outright. After dozens of small but highly efficient improvements installed at 46 buildings on three campuses, the district has modernized its infrastructure for less than $21 million.

The district has also reduced its energy costs by more than $1 million annually, alleviating pressure on its operating budget.

Chevron Energy Solutions developed, engineered and installed the upgrades for the district, including energy-efficient lighting and electrical systems, boiler improvements, chilled water systems, air handling and conditioning systems, pipe and pumping systems, energy management controls and real-time metering.

About 90 percent of the efficiency improvements have been installed to date. The remaining work, which will include new digital control systems in buildings throughout the district, will be completed in 2005.