Case Study: Winona State University achieves major energy and carbon savings with McKinstry’s energy efficiency and solar upgrades

Winona State University - Customer Case Study

Winona State University (WSU), a public university in Minnesota with a strong commitment to campus sustainability, sought a cost-neutral solution to meet its energy efficiency and carbon reduction goals. To address this challenge, WSU partnered with vendor McKinstry through an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) for a comprehensive Leading Energy Savings & Sustainability (LESS) project.

McKinstry implemented a wide-ranging solution that included installing a 1.4 MW solar array, upgrading lighting across campus, and enhancing water conservation equipment. This project, the largest of its kind in the Minnesota State system, guarantees annual utility and operational savings of approximately $685,000. The results include a 23.8% reduction in utility costs, a 25% carbon reduction, and water savings of over 16%, significantly advancing WSU's sustainability leadership.

Winona State University

Nathan Engstrom

Campus Sustainability and Planning Director and LESS Project Manager