Institutions of all kinds are finding ways to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint as environmental awareness and energy conservation continue to increase.
Recently, the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library (MPHPL) launched energy efficiency initiatives in partnership with Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) and HFIAW Local 75 South Bend.
Energy-efficient projects and partnerships
The partnership between MPHPL and NIPSCO represents a commitment to energy conservation and responsibility.
Acknowledging the library's success in meeting energy-saving goals, Kirby Dipert, Field Engineer with TRC representing NIPSCO's Energy Efficiency Program, presented MPHPL with a rebate check of $11,352.39.
"The total reflects the 13,934 therms MPHPL will save annually through energy-saving measures implemented," said Dipert.
Replacing aging pipes with energy-efficient piping and applying mechanical insulation on over 1,600 feet of pipes across all three library locations was another project completed at the Mishawaka Library.
Valley Insulating Co. Inc. was crucial in achieving the energy efficiency goals goals set by MPHPL.
Local 75 President and Organizer Andrew Regnier visited the library sites and performed 3E Energy Audits on each building.
Regnier presented the audit results to Rick Rittenhouse, MPHPL's Maintenance Manager, to discuss how proper installation of mechanical insulation would save the library money by increasing its energy efficiency.
Rittenhouse and Regnier discussed how investing in mechanical insulation will give the library a return on investment in a short period.
"Mechanical insulation works and, and I am hopeful more businesses in our jurisdiction will follow MPHPL's lead and make the investment in becoming more energy efficient."
Insulating pipes can significantly enhance energy efficiency by stabilizing temperature within the pipes, reducing heat loss and preventing the risk of frozen lines. Burst pipes lead to costly repairs and a waste of water.
Positive outcome, future prospects
The energy-efficient projects have already shown positive results for the library. MPHPL's Operations Manager Dena Wargo reported a noticeable reduction in the library's monthly NIPSCO bills, indicating the impact of these initiatives on operational costs.
The library continues to explore and implement projects that guarantee long-term energy conservation benefits.
"We continually look for ways to save tax dollars... saving on energy bills emans more books for our patrons; conserving energy and getting a rebate for doing so is a win-win for everyone," said MPHPL Director Donna Meeks in a prepared statement.
The collaboration between MPHPL, NIPSCO and Local 75 is a great example for promoting energy efficiency in public institutions. The success of energy-efficient projects underscores the significance of insulation and efficient thermal systems in reducing energy consumption and operational risks.