MCC replaces lighting - saves energy

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) has been around the block a few times, and so have some of the infrastructures of the older buildings. With five campuses across the metro area, MCC has made significant changes to the way it operates – taking on the challenge to become greener and more energy efficient.

Beginning in May, MCC began a project to retro-fit the vast majority of the internal and external campus lighting, most with motion sensors.

Working with Facility Solutions Group (FSG) and in-house construction crews, MCC will replace the lights and ballasts in more than 24,000 fixtures by the time the project is complete. In other areas new fixtures and lighting controls are being added.

Jim Frank, FSG division manager, explains that there have been advances in the lighting industry the last few years and MCC is receiving the latest in technological advancements. With the new systems in place, the benefits gained include:
· Better lighting
· Instant on
· Energy savings
· Recycling of old parts

“There are several other tangible benefits from the lighting change,” said Darrel Meyer, director of MCC facility services.

The new lighting will generate less heat in the buildings, which will save money on cooling costs. The bulbs come with a 3 year warranty; ballasts have a 3-5 year warranty. The bulbs produce more even lighting throughout each room. “Because the bulbs and ballasts are new, MCC saves money on the replacement bulbs and labor,” said Meyer.

The campuses are in several different phases of the project. Once complete, there is an expected $250,000 projected annual savings in electrical costs that will pay back the cost of the project over a six year period.

Visit the MCC Green Initiative Task Force facebook page.