News Release
Energy Efficiency Partnership Between the City of Springfield and WMECo Benefits Students and Taxpayers
Springfield, Mass. (March 27, 2013) – Springfield’s new $115 million Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy is a prime example of how the city’s energy efficiency partnership with WMECo is paying off – saving energy, increasing comfort and cutting greenhouse gases – while also saving taxpayers money.
During today’s visit to Putnam Academy, WMECo President and COO Peter Clarke announced the city is receiving more than $190,000 in energy efficiency incentives. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno partnered with WMECo at the start of construction to identify opportunities for installing energy efficient equipment including advanced lighting and controls, as well as premium-efficiency heating, ventilating and cooling systems within the new school.
“This is the type of project WMECo is proud to be part of as we continue to expand the possibilities for energy efficiency partnerships,” said Peter Clarke, WMECo President and COO. “It’s all about saving our customers money and preserving our natural resources, while at the same time improving the surroundings for our students who will carry these important lessons forward.”
“Putnam Academy now serves as a state-of-the-art showcase we can be proud of,” said Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. “We no longer have to sacrifice to save energy. The building is full of light, the temperature is controlled at an optimum setting, and the high tech upgrades are quiet, integrated, cost efficient and will serve this City well.”
The biggest savings at the school come from the energy efficient lighting, with an annual electricity savings of 650,000 kilowatt-hours when compared to less efficient options. The total annual energy savings for all of the measures installed is well over one million kWh—the same as taking nearly 150 cars off the road. It is a savings of hundreds of thousands of dollars over the life of the equipment.
“Building a green school was a priority from the start of the construction project,” said Superintendent of Schools Daniel J. Warwick. “We are pleased with not only the financial savings, which of course allows us to re-direct more funds into the classroom, but also with the positive impact that this new school plays environmentally for our students and staff and the entire City of Springfield.”
The Design and Visual Communications class presented the mayor and WMECo’s president with plaques they created commemorating this innovative green partnership.
For more information about WMECo’s energy efficiency programs available through Mass Save, visit