Lakehead U Recognized for Energy Efficiency
Natural Resources Canada Commends Lakehead U for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
(Thunder Bay - April 29, 2005) Lakehead University has received recognition from Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency -- Energy Innovator's Initiative for the University's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A letter from the Director General of the Office of Energy Efficiency states: "Natural Resources Canada appreciates the voluntary commitment (Lakehead University) has made in support of Canada's goal to reduce harmful emissions through greater energy efficiency."
This award recognizes Lakehead U's comprehensive infrastructure renewal program designed to offer substantial energy cost savings, meet environmental standards, and improve working conditions. These improvements, reached through a business agreement with Johnson Controls, L.P., will save Lakehead over $830,000 each year based on current energy consumption. Johnson Controls is supplying and installing a new central cooling and heating plant, heating distribution system, and lighting and indoor air quality (IAQ) improvements in select buildings throughout the campus.
This move addresses Lakehead U's long-term energy and deferred maintenance requirements. As part of the agreement, there will be zero deferred maintenance on the central plant. Replacing the 30-year-old system currently in use means that additional cost savings can start immediately, instead of waiting until the system fails and accruing high maintenance costs over the years.
The Office of Energy Efficiency -- Energy Innovators Initiative is a program designed to help organizations lower energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. The Energy Innovators Initiative encourages commercial businesses and public institutions to invest in existing buildings. It recognizes organizations that voluntarily take steps to reduce greenhouse emissions.
Hugh Briggs Manager, Energy Systems at Lakehead University, is available for interview by calling 343-8790.
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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, Lakehead University, 343-8177 or 472-9113