Case Study: Colorado School of Mines achieves major energy and water savings with McKinstry

Colorado School of Mines Energy Efficiency Upgrades in Golden

The Colorado School of Mines, a public research university, partnered with McKinstry to improve its energy and water efficiency and reduce operational costs. The challenge was to implement a wide range of facility upgrades that would address outdated infrastructure and promote conservation across its campus.

McKinstry implemented a multi-phase energy savings performance contract (ESPC). The solution included a campus-wide irrigation controls retrofit, HVAC exhaust energy recovery, a lighting retrofit, and a chiller plant replacement. McKinstry also deployed its powerED behavior engagement program to foster a cultural shift in energy use. These measures resulted in a nearly 20% reduction in water usage and a total program cost avoidance of over $1,500,000 annually, which equates to roughly 9% reduced energy use.

Colorado School of Mines

Mike Willey

Building Operations Manager