Yeshiva University Energy & Sustainability Master Plan

Altanova was commissioned by Yeshiva University to provide an Energy Sustainability Master Plan for the University to participate in the New York State REV Campus Challenge. The REV Campus Challenge is a NYSERDA program that assists colleges and universities with setting environmental goals and developing a comprehensive roadmap to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. To ensure high standards of quality, NYSERDA provides funding to offset the cost of professional consultations related to developing these goals. The three campuses part of this strategic plan represent a total area of approximately 1.8 MSF (Million Square-Feet) owned and operated by Yeshiva University.

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‍Approach/Challenges

Altanova gathered and benchmarked the data related to Yeshiva University’s whole building portfolio and energy use to develop a portfolio-wide energy strategy for the University.

Our strategic plan was based on a standard approach to “repair and replace” operational opportunities first, implement capital energy efficiency measures second, and on-site, distributed energy resources (photovoltaic, battery energy storage and combined heat and power) third. Out of the opportunities identified, the ones that were easily implementable and had the best financials were chosen.

This energy master plan, if implemented and financed in optimal conditions, has the potential to substantially reduce the climate impact of the University, support the investment in much needed mechanical and building infrastructures while saving a significant amount of operational expenses despite the less than optimal financing conditions available to the University.

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Results

According to Altanova’s simulations, the plan is expected to reduce global warming impact approximately 50% and reduce energy expenditure from a total of $4.5 million to approximately $2 million per year (or a reduction of more than 50%). To achieve this level of savings, it was estimated that $17 million of investment was required. Based on the incentive programs available with ConEd and NYSERDA at the time, $11.8 million will be required after payments of the eligible incentives (~$5.1million).