Energy System Group

Scope Of Work

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) selected Energy Systems Group (ESG) to develop and implement a $41 million energy savings performance contract for comprehensive energy conservation and infrastructure improvements at its UIUC College of Engineering.

The project is the second ESG has completed for the university and guarantees energy and operational savings of approximately $42 million. The project’s scope of work includes air handling unit replacements and retrofits; low-flow fume hood replacements; VAV box upgrades on air handling units; DDC system upgrades; lighting system occupancy sensor installations; steam trap replacements; pipe insulation replacements; ductwork system cleaning; and the upsizing of equipment for future connection.

Key Installed Technologies
New HVAC equipment and controls were installed, which allow for better temperature control, improved air quality, building pressure control, reduced maintenance, and energy savings.

Occupancy sensors that reduce lighting load requirements were installed in all five buildings, saving energy and reducing maintenance. In addition, occupancy sensors were connected to HVAC systems to modulate airflow based on occupancy.

A closed process water loop was installed to cool lab equipment that was previously cooled by millions of gallons of once-through city water each year. Ground water was utilized in a lab building for an exhaust air scrubber application. Exposed steam and condensate pipe was insulated, minimizing thermal energy loss, maximizing energy efficiency, and improving safety. Supply and return ductwork systems were cleaned, improving airflow, air quality, and increasing HVAC system efficiency.

A cleanroom was constructed in an existing research facility. All associated HVAC, controls, and safety equipment were installed to meet ISO 5 cleanroom requirements.

Energy and Operational Savings of approximately $42 million 
Energy consumption at UIUC is projected to drop by nearly 22 percent as a result of the improvements, and the university’s carbon footprint will be reduced by more than 4,034 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year over the term of the project. To put this in perspective, 3,819 acres of forest would need to be planted or 852 cars removed from the road to see a similar reduction in emission levels.  

Close