Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) along with Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s statewide program for energy efficiency and renewable energy, recently awarded the Merrill Area Public School $14,627.25 to assist with the costs of implementing several energy- saving measures.
The Merrill Area Public School, with assistance from WPS and Focus on Energy, installed variable speed drives on air handling systems and upgraded lighting in the maintenance shop and in the high school commons. As a result of the improvements, the district will save 86,700 kilowatt hours and realize over $8,600 annually in energy savings.
“I’m impressed with the school’s commitment to making energy saving upgrades,” said Fred Westphal, WPS Account Executive. “For several years now, they have partnered with WPS and Focus on Energy to identify savings opportunities, and to take advantage of incentives like the multiple project bonus program that WPS offers its commercial customers.”
The District’s Building and Grounds Supervisor Bryan Plautz and Maintenance Specialist Bruce Duginski work with WPS and Focus on Energy to identify and implement energy-saving projects.
“The key is that we do not jump into any project blindly,” says Bruce Duginski, Maintenance Specialist. He explains that the district has taken energy-savings projects to another level. He works closely with Focus on Energy representatives to determine which projects are the best option for saving energy and money for Merrill Public Schools.
“We take the time to do our research and discuss options with our partners at Focus on Energy and WPS. Our approach is working – we have invested in many projects, and each time we see the value in black and white. Focus on Energy has been an integral part of this effort,” said Bryan Plautz, Building and Grounds Supervisor at Merrill Public Schools.
Focus on Energy’s purpose is to help businesses and residents across the state identify and evaluate energy-saving opportunities, provide specific recommendations, develop energy management plans, and arrange technical training opportunities about energy conservation. For more information, call 800-762-7077 or visit www.focusonenergy.com.