Shepherd University has partnered with CMTA on a campus-wide initiative to address critical infrastructure challenges while achieving significant energy savings. Delivering $1.8M in total energy savings so far—with more savings expected in the future—the project reflects the university’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.
Established in 1871, Shepherd University is a premier public university grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, serving over 3,200 students from West Virginia and across the globe. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the university reassessed its campus priorities and discovered $43M in deferred maintenance, along with dramatically escalating energy costs. Many systems were nearing the end of their useful life, straining the operations and maintenance budget. Additionally, previous grant-funded projects using a design/bid/build model had delivered underperforming equipment, compounding financial and maintenance challenges.
For example, the air handling units serving the NCAA-compliant gymnasium at their Butcher Center facility relied on outdated refrigerant and required recurring $50,000+ repair costs every spring in anticipation of commencement ceremonies. Campus utility costs exceeded $3 million annually, while operation and maintenance costs totaled $725,000. Alongside outdated and failing mechanical and electrical systems, the campus-wide building automation system (BAS) from the mid-2000s could not maintain comfortable space temperatures. This resulted in many buildings operating 24/7/365, driving excess energy costs.
Comprehensive Solutions Through Partnership
To address these challenges with minimal impact on their operating budget, Shepherd University partnered with CMTA in late 2020 to evaluate their facilities and develop a strategic approach to modernization. Using an investment-grade audit approach, CMTA assessed the age, condition, and operational costs of all campus infrastructure. Together, Shepherd and CMTA implemented a multi-year, campus-wide approach to infrastructure upgrades using a combination of funding sources, including an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) and a loan from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WV HEPC) Energy and Water Savings Revolving Loan Fund. In 2023, the university also received an award from the state’s Deferred Maintenance Grant program, which allowed for further upgrades.
Stacking multiple funding sources enabled immediate action, with the first two phases funding $16.7M in facility upgrades. These upgrades are guaranteed to save more than $515,000 per year in operational costs over the next 15 years. Remarkably, the project has already delivered over $420,000 in excess savings, directly impacting Shepherd’s bottom line and supporting its academic, athletic, and cultural missions.
Campus-Wide Upgrades Deliver Impact
Key upgrades have been implemented across more than 1M square feet on campus, resulting in a 32% year-over-year reduction in energy use. Highlights include:
- Butcher Center: Full replacement of 35-year-old mechanical system
- Dunlop and Printz Residence Halls: Chiller upgrades
- Byrd Science Center: Full mechanical system replacement and laboratory exhaust upgrades
- Student Center: HVAC renovation from chilled water/hot water to water-source heat pump system and electrical switchgear replacement
- Wellness Center: Natatorium pool dehumidification unit replacement
- Dining Hall: Boiler replacement White Hall: Chiller and pump replacements
- Boone Field House: Domestic water heater replacements
- Campus-Wide: Infrastructure upgrades across 1M+ square feet, LED lighting upgrades to 10K+ lighting fixtures across 25 buildings, and phased upgrade of BAS systems to a modern platform in 19 buildings
Byrd Science Center provides an excellent case study of these improvements. Working closely with lab managers and deans CMTA evaluated laboratory utilization, codes, and operating procedures to revise airflows and replace equipment that would better serve the needs of occupants while drastically reducing energy consumption. Once the highest energy consumer on campus with an energy use intensity (EUI) of 292 kBTU/ft²/yr, Byrd has seen a 29% energy reduction following a full mechanical system replacement and lab airflow redesign to meet current code.
A Vision of Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency
Shepherd University’s progressive approach to deferred maintenance and campus renovations is a prime example of integrating sustainability with cost-effective resource management. By utilizing multiple funding sources and partnering with CMTA on an ESPC, the university has not only improved thermal comfort across campus but also realized significant energy and cost savings. These achievements underscore Shepherd’s vision for a forward-thinking campus that prioritizes financial stability, environmental stewardship, and student success.
