DALLAS – September 26, 2007 – Jacksonville City Schools system in Jacksonville, Ala., has signed a $361,000 performance contract with the Energy Solutions division of TAC. A world leader in building automation, security and energy services, TAC will provide facility upgrades to improve operations, comfort and efficiency at two schools. TAC guarantees that the school system will reduce utility costs by nearly $36,000 annually when the project is completed later this fall.
TAC is delivering this project through performance contracting, a turnkey contracting method whereby the design, construction, commissioning and performance measurement are incorporated into one guaranteed fixed price. Improved facility efficiency and comfort are among the long-term results TAC delivers as the single provider accountable for all aspects of the project. TAC guarantees the amount of savings the projects will achieve and agrees to pay the difference if that amount is not realized. Typically, new, more efficient equipment and upgraded facility automation systems generate the utility savings, as well as maximize energy efficiency and improve occupant comfort.
Through the performance contract, Jacksonville City Schools will be able to address several key issues including outdated lighting, a limited energy management system (EMS), and the lack of remote monitoring capability.
TAC will retrofit more than 3,700 light fixtures at the elementary school and at two high school gyms with more efficient, modern technology, such as T8 and T5 fluorescent fixtures. At the high school, TAC will replace a defective sensor and measuring points in the EMS and the system will be recommissioned. A new EMS will be installed at the elementary school, where none is present, and both systems will be accessible over the Web for remote monitoring of each facility. Furthermore, freezers at each school will be tied into the EMS system so personnel will be alerted when a problem arises with power failure or temperature variance.
“With this fully self-funding energy savings construction contract from TAC, our schools will be more energy efficient, and the facility staff will be able to remotely monitor and control building operation schedules,” said Eric G. Mackey, superintendent of Jacksonville City Schools. “This is a significant upgrade for Jacksonville City Schools, and it will cost us no more than what we have already been paying for utilities.” “Students, faculty and other staff at Jacksonville City Schools will enjoy a better learning and working environment as a result of these facility updates,” said Wes McDaniel, vice president of TAC Energy Solutions. “The new gymnasium lighting will provide everyone with a clearer view of all the sports activities with reduced energy costs.”
