Greenwich grapples with energy savings

Four years ago, Greenwich formed an Energy Management Advisory Committee. The goal was to cut energy costs by at least 20%, but progress has stalled. Energy usage has declined only 2% since 2020, far below the 20% goal. The easy fixes of installing LED light bulbs were done, but further reductions of tackling big buildings are more complex.

Greenwich public schools are the biggest users of energy, representing 48% of energy costs last year. The new Central Middle School is being built with a conventional gas-burning system and, without a net-zero approach, energy costs are expected to rise. Hamilton Avenue School was built with a geothermal system, but it failed due to poor maintenance, and will cost another $5 plus million to fix.

Suggestions from the Committee include hiring an energy manager, combining town and school district facilities departments, and creating a standing building committee of knowledgeable volunteers who consult on all major town projects.

Between the Lines: How can we be sure if we spend more money that we will really save money? The cost of alternative energy equipment (its lifespan, maintenance, required expertise and need for an energy manager) may mean the real return on investment is still inferior to conventional systems.

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