Ameresco intends to begin work on a series of energy efficiency and water conserving measures at seven Las Animas County facilities.
Under the ESPC, Ameresco will demonstrate how the improvements will generate energy and water savings that will cover the associated costs of the project over the term of the contract, the company said.
Ameresco regional director George Tocquigny said in collaboration with the Colorado Governor’s Energy Office consultant, Nexant, the company identified a wide range of conservation opportunities for the County.
"Under the ESPC, we will implement upgrades that are valued at just over $1.1m, with no upfront cost to the County or its citizens," Tocquigny said.
Las Animas County deputy administrator Leslee Fresquez said by upgrading existing aged and inefficient equipment, installing new technologies, and adding door sweeps that eliminate drafts, the county expects to save about $50,000 in the first year and this is anticipated to increase if future utility rate increases occur.
The seven county facilities, including the justice center, county courthouse, health department headquarters, fairgrounds grandstand, and the airport were part of this extensive energy and water review.
Ameresco said the environmental benefits of the current work scope are expected to result in annual energy reductions equivalent to planting 1,042 trees or recycling 91 tons of waste instead of sending to landfills.
