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Melissa Utsuki
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mutsuki@citruscollege.edu
Citrus College receives award for sustainability
Glendora, Calif. (Jan. 20, 2021) – In recognition of its sustainability efforts, Citrus College recently received a California Community Colleges Board of Governors Energy and Sustainability Award.
Lauded for its retro-commissioning projects, which reduced energy usage and costs, Citrus College was one of five award recipients announced during the Jan. 19, 2021, Board of Governors meeting. The college won Best Overall Innovative Project for a medium-sized community college district.
"Sustainability has always been a priority of Citrus College, and this honor validates the incredible strides we have made in recent years," said Dr. Geraldine M. Perri, superintendent/president of Citrus College. "I am grateful to Director of Facilities and Construction Fred Diamond and his staff for their vision and efforts in guiding these projects to completion."
The retro-commissioning projects took place in the college's central plant and 12 largest buildings on campus. As a result of these efforts, Citrus College is saving nearly 1.5 million kilowatt-hours and 40,000 therms each year, leading to an annual cost savings of approximately $225,000.
"Being recognized for excellence in energy and sustainability is an incredible accomplishment," said Claudette E. Dain, vice president of finance and administrative services. "In addition to a more comfortable environment, the energy and cost savings created as a result of these projects will be felt for many Citrus College generations to come."
Citrus College worked with Climatec, Southern California Edison and kW Engineering on the improvements. The total project cost was $1.2 million, with nearly $400,000 of funding coming from incentives.
Some of the central plant projects included implementing an automated controls sequence for the energy storage system that saved energy, minimized peak demand charges and saved on maintenance time. Others enhancements included repairing broken chilled water valves and properly scheduling the air handlers for efficiency.
Established in 2012, the Board of Governors Energy and Sustainability Awards are split into three categories: Excellence in Energy and Sustainability – Innovative Project; Excellence in Energy and Sustainability – Faculty/Student Initiatives; and Excellence in Energy and Sustainability – Sustainability Champion.
Citrus College has been committed to sustainability efforts for decades. Some recent sustainability activities include the installation of solar panels in the E2 and S2 parking lots, as well as new electric vehicle charging stations.
"On behalf of the board, I want to congratulate Citrus College and its staff on this incredible accolade," said Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees. "As we look to a more sustainable future, it will be vital for Citrus College to remain committed to finding new and innovative ways to reducing energy usage."
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