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Energy Efficiency Creates a 21st Century Learning Environment

· Innovative energy efficiency technologies will save $5.3 million over the life of the project

· Partnership enhances district’s commitment to STEM education and preparing students for success

PASADENA, Calif. – February 12, 2018 The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) today announced a partnership with energy and sustainability expert Schneider Electric to dramatically improve energy efficiency throughout its facilities and enhance STEM education programs. Through the partnership, Schneider Electric will implement a wide range of infrastructure improvement projects to support the district’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability as well as its mission to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world. In total, the project will generate $5.3 million in energy and operational savings.

“School districts in California and beyond are under tremendous pressure to responsibly preserve budget dollars while also enhancing the educational experience for students,” said Kathleen Neff, CA K-12 Account Executive, Schneider Electric. “We are proud to support PUSD and its mission in developing 21st century skills that will help students make a positive impact locally and globally, while also creating facilities that let students maximize their full potential.”

As part of the partnership, teachers from PUSD’s Washington STEAM Magnet Academy will participate in the National Institute for STEM Education’s certification program to earn the National Certificate for STEM Teaching & Excellence. This nationally recognized program provides districts, teachers and students with curriculum and professional development tools to develop tomorrow’s STEM leaders. This certification program is provided through Schneider Electric’s partnership with STEMscopes, a provider of online, hands-on STEM curriculum.

“Our partnership with Schneider Electric will help us prepare our students and facilities for the future and supports our commitment to long-term sustainability. We are excited to embark on this innovative project that infuses STEM education skills with critical facilities improvements,” said Brian McDonald, Superintendent, Pasadena Unified School District. “This makes the most of our resources so that we can deliver high quality educational choices that prepare our graduates for success in college and careers.”

The project is being delivered through an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) which uses projected energy savings to pay for projects over time. This model helps school districts implement facilities improvements and initiatives they otherwise might not be able to afford, including expanded STEM programs.

Energy efficiency improvements will take place at the Eliot Arts Magnet Academy and Marshall Fundamental Secondary School. Savings will come from a wide variety of energy conservation measures including:

  • Interior and exterior LED lighting upgrades with occupancy sensors and automated dimming controls
  • Building automation system upgrades
  • Utility meter upgrades with user-friendly energy dashboards
  • HVAC, chiller and fan coil valve equipment replacements
  • Wireless plug load management

The project leverages funding secured through the Proposition 39 Clean Energy Jobs Act (Prop 39) and Measure TT, the district’s local bond. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by summer 2018. A majority of construction will take place during winter and summer breaks to minimize the impact on students, faculty and staff.

This project builds on Schneider Electric’s expertise in advancing school districts’ goals with Prop 39 projects in California. In addition to the work underway at PUSD, Schneider Electric has completed similar projects with districts including Santa Paula Unified School District, Capistrano Unified School District, San Marcos Unified School District, Laguna Beach Unified School District, Bear Valley Unified School District and more. Across the state of California, Schneider Electric has helped school districts secure more than $48 million in Prop 39 grants over the past four years.

Over the past 25 years, Schneider Electric has successfully implemented more than 675 ESPC projects across the nation, saving its clients nearly $2 billion. This project delivery method helps publicly funded entities make capital improvements over longer payback periods and offers many long-term benefits such as improved facility efficiency, occupant comfort, financial management and environmental protection.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is leading the Digital Transformation of Energy Management and Automation in Homes, Buildings, Data Centers, Infrastructure and Industries. With global presence in over 100 countries, Schneider is the undisputable leader in Power Management – Medium Voltage, Low Voltage and Secure Power, and in Automation Systems. We provide integrated efficiency solutions, combining energy, automation and software. In our global Ecosystem, we collaborate with the largest Partner, Integrator and Developer Community on our Open Platform to deliver real-time control and operational efficiency. We believe that great people and partners make Schneider a great company and that our commitment to Innovation, Diversity and Sustainability ensures that Life Is On everywhere, for everyone and at every moment.