Dauphin County Commissioners Tuesday announced they has selected energy products and services provider Constellation to install a solar hot water system at Dauphin County Prison.

The cost of the energy efficiency upgrade is funded in part through additional energy savings realized through the county’s 2009 energy performance contract with Constellation.

The solar hot water heating system is designed to supply 575 gallons a day and save the county an additional estimated $3,000 a year in energy costs.  Work is scheduled for completion in early 2014.

“Thanks to the success of the first phase of our energy efficiency program, we are able to implement additional conservation measures that help the county further reduce its carbon footprint as well as produce significant cost savings for taxpayers,” said Dauphin County Board Commissioner, Jeff Haste.

In 2011, the county’s conservation measures through the energy performance contract with Constellation exceeded their guaranteed savings by more than $150,000. 

“This expanded energy efficiency program for Dauphin County is a great example of the value of energy performance contracting for customers,” said Larry Godleski, executive director, regional markets, for Constellation.

During phase one of the county’s energy efficiency program, Constellation implemented conservation measures in 13 buildings, including energy heating and cooling equipment upgrades, new storm window installations, water conservation measures and high-efficiency lighting. 

Through the energy performance contract with Constellation, the conservation measures required no upfront capital from the county and were guaranteed more than $10 million in energy costs over a 15-year period.

A NAESCO-accredited Energy Services Provider, Constellation has assisted commercial customers and public agencies throughout the U.S. to implement energy efficiency programs. Customers interested in energy efficiency and environmental solutions may contact Constellation at 1-866-237-7693.

12/2/2013