The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recognized Monroe Community College and the University of Rochester with a High Performance Building Plaque last week for energy-saving investments that will reduce energy costs by a combined $167,000 annually.

Monroe Community College’s PAC Center and the University of Rochester’s renovated Data Center were supported by $300,000 in NYSERDA incentives, which helped fund the purchase and installation of advanced energy efficiency technologies, including high performance lighting and occupancy controls, high efficiency fans, pumps and motors and a water-side economizer, which uses free outdoor air to cool water used in data center air handling systems, among other measures.

“Energy efficiency and sustainable building materials are the most cost-effective investments colleges and universities can make for long-term savings and a healthy indoor learning and work environment for students, faculty and staff,” said Francis J. Murray Jr., President and CEO of NYSERDA. “I commend the leadership of these academic institutions for the high priority they have placed on conserving energy and protecting our environment.”

“The University of Rochester has made sustainability a guiding principle in facilities planning,” said David E. Lewis, Vice Provost and Chief Information Officer at the University of Rochester. “The NYSERDA incentives made it possible to build a sustainable, energy-efficient Data Center that supports the diverse and evolving needs of a world-class research university and a premier regional health care system.”

The energy savings—more than 945,000 kilowatt hours—is equivalent to the amount of electricity consumed by 137 single-family homes annually and will be realized by these institutions every year for years to come.

NYSERDA High Performance Building Plaques are presented to hospitals, colleges and universities, schools, businesses and other organizations that have constructed or substantially renovated buildings to perform at least 30 percent above the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code.

Monroe Community College and the University of Rochester are the 49th and 50th recipients of the plaque, and their new buildings are rated to perform 33% and 42% above code, respectively. Other Rochester Region recipients of this award include the City of Rochester Water Authority, Roberts Wesleyan College’s Golisano Library and the YMC East Side in Penfield.