Energy Systems Group

From Funding Gap to Action Plan: Redondo Beach Unified’s Smart Path to Modernization

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:48:16 +0000

From Funding Gap to Action Plan: Redondo Beach Unified’s Smart Path to Modernization

Hugging the Pacific coast just 25 miles south of Los Angeles, Redondo Beach Unified School District (RBUSD) serves about 9,500 students in 13 schools. The district is well known for its high standards and high performers. On Niche, a platform that ranks schools, RBUSD ranks #1 in the Los Angeles area, #5 in California, and #40 in the U.S.

While the district's academic priorities are firmly set on preparing students for the future, its facilities have struggled at times to keep pace. With an average age of 70 years, the district's buildings date back to a time when infrastructure demands were much different.

Specifically, three school libraries lacked any cooling technology at all. In addition to serving students throughout the day, the libraries are frequently used for family and community events. Many of the district's HVAC systems had also been pushed past their limits during the pandemic, when schools across the country were trying to air out classrooms. With teachers keeping doors and windows open out of an abundance of caution, systems ran constantly and well beyond their intended capacity. As a result, many units were overtaxed and no longer operating efficiently.

Finding a Quick Path to Procurement with Sourcewell

With this in mind, the district sought a partner to help them deliver more cool, comfortable classrooms for students and staff. In 2024, the district started a partnership with Energy Systems Group. ESG completed a CalSHAPE Phase 1 assessment, identifying HVAC units in need of repair or replacement. The district anticipated covering the cost of those upgrades through a follow-up state grant of $6 million. But when the state canceled the program, RBUSD was left with a critical infrastructure need and a significant funding gap. The district pivoted to pass a bond to fund districtwide upgrades, ensuring access to safe and modern classrooms and facilities. This was a win for the district, as the bond could cover some of its HVAC needs, but it couldn’t cover the project’s full scope right away. To quickly implement phase one of the HVAC replacement scope, RBUSD needed a creative procurement approach.

Fortunately, Energy Systems Group is one of just nine companies selected from more than 20 applicants to partner with Sourcewell, a national cooperative purchasing program. Sourcewell evaluates contractors on qualifications, process, services, and pricing, and its review process is designed to meet or exceed local competitive bidding requirements. ESG's participation in the Sourcewell program gives districts confidence that they are receiving competitive pricing.

With ESG being one of the Sourcewell-approved partners, RBUSD was able to sole-source the project through ESG rather than undertaking a full RFP and bidding process, saving months of procurement time. Additionally, some cooperative purchasing programs cover only materials, but Sourcewell contracts allow for both materials and labor. For RBUSD, that meant a faster, more comprehensive path forward that kept the project on track without sacrificing accountability. Not to mention, the ability to continue their trusted partnership with ESG.

Working Around the Bell Schedule

The $8.4 million HVAC project will be implemented in phases, with work expected to begin in the spring of 2026. From the start, ESG has worked hand in hand with district leadership to build the construction schedule around students. Equipment replacements will take place during spring break, evenings, and weekends, while library installations are planned for later in the year. Because students can be redirected away from library spaces during that work, disruption to the school day is expected to be minimal.

RBUSD is managing a significant number of facility improvements across its 13 schools as part of the bond passed in 2024. ESG proactively coordinates with other contractors on site before work begins, helping to keep logistics organized and reducing the coordination burden on district administrators. For school leaders already balancing a full slate of capital projects, that kind of partnership goes a long way.

Cooler Classrooms and a Satisfied Community

This project marks the third phase of an ongoing partnership between RBUSD and ESG. Following the initial facility assessment through the CalSHAPE program and a nearly $3.6 million lighting upgrade completed in 2025, the district has consistently turned to ESG to make the most of available funding and deliver meaningful improvements for students and staff. The district has even recognized ESG as its energy services partner of choice, a reflection of the trust built through years of consistent delivery.

The work itself represents a meaningful upgrade in quality and durability. In spaces that currently have cooling, aging systems are being replaced with modern ducted systems that will maintain consistent temperatures more reliably and efficiently. In the three libraries where no cooling has ever existed, teachers, students, and families who have packed into overheated library spaces over the years will notice an immediate difference.

Beyond comfort, ESG is upgrading the district's building controls, giving staff the ability to monitor conditions remotely and address issues before they become problems. The new, more efficient systems will also require less maintenance and fewer repairs over time, producing ongoing operational savings. Taken together, these improvements will lower energy costs, improve indoor air quality, and give the broader community tangible evidence that their concerns were heard and acted upon.

By investing in a long-term relationship with a trusted energy services partner, RBUSD has been able to move quickly and strategically as funding opportunities arise and infrastructure needs evolve, without losing time searching for new vendors or starting from scratch. For school leaders navigating aging facilities, tight budgets, and rising community expectations, that kind of continuity can make all the difference.

Learn more about our K12 Solutions today

The post From Funding Gap to Action Plan: Redondo Beach Unified’s Smart Path to Modernization appeared first on Energy Systems Group.

A Continued Commitment to Veterans: ESG Receives Third Consecutive HIRE Vets Medallion Award

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 13:48:03 +0000

A Continued Commitment to Veterans: ESG Receives Third Consecutive HIRE Vets Medallion Award

Energy Systems Group (ESG) is proud to announce that we have once again been recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor with the 2025 HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award. This marks our third consecutive year receiving a Medallion Award. It reflects our continued commitment to employing, supporting, and advancing veterans across our organization.

The HIRE Vets Medallion is the only federal-level award recognizing employers for their investment in recruiting, retaining, and developing veteran talent. Receiving Gold status again underscores our dedication to creating meaningful career pathways in the energy and infrastructure sector for those who have served our nation.

Learn more at HIREVets.gov

Veterans Strengthen Every Part of ESG

Veterans and active-duty reservists are an essential part of ESG’s workforce, contributing across engineering, operations, construction, project management, and mission-critical federal support. Their leadership, discipline, and collaborative approach help us deliver high-performing, resilient solutions for our clients.

Veterans bring more than technical experience. They bring perspective shaped by service, teamwork, and a deep sense of responsibility. These qualities strengthen our culture and elevate the work we do every day.

Investing in Veteran Growth and Support

Our commitment to veterans goes far beyond hiring. ESG continues to expand programs that help former service members build long-term careers within our organization, including:

Clear pathways for professional advancement
Leadership development and career training
Mentorship, support, and resources through our Veteran & Military Resource Group (VMRG)

The VMRG plays a central role in connecting veterans, active-duty reservists, and their families with resources, networking opportunities, and peer support. This group reflects ESG’s broader mission to foster a culture rooted in respect, integrity, and service.

"Receiving the 2025 HIRE Vets Gold Medallion is an honor and a reflection of the values we strive to uphold every day. Veterans bring extraordinary dedication and experience to ESG. We are committed to ensuring they have the resources, opportunities, and support to build rewarding careers with us.”

- Jeff Blum, Energy Systems Group CEO

Looking Ahead

As ESG continues to grow, so does our responsibility to support the veterans who choose to build their careers with us. Being recognized for the third year in a row is more than an award. It is a reminder of the trust veterans place in our organization and the importance of maintaining a workplace where they can thrive.

We are proud to stand alongside our veteran employees and honored to celebrate their service, leadership, and ongoing contributions to ESG.

Interested in joining the team? Explore our careers today

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Creating Healthy Learning Environments: Antelope Valley Union High School District’s Long-Term Facility Transformation

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:46:19 +0000

Creating Healthy Learning Environments: Antelope Valley Union High School District’s Long-Term Facility Transformation

In the high desert of Southern California, Antelope Valley Union High School District (AVUHSD) serves more than 25,000 students across 20 school campuses. Like many large districts, AVUHSD faced mounting infrastructure challenges, like aging HVAC systems, outdated building controls, and learning environments affected by poor indoor air quality. Add in California’s triple-digit temperatures and COVID-era health concerns, and it became clear to the district’s leaders that short-term fixes were no longer enough.

Rather than take a piecemeal approach, AVUHSD leaders sought a long-term strategy, one rooted in partnership and designed for lasting impact. That’s when they connected with Energy Systems Group (ESG), formerly PacificWest Energy Solutions.

A Multi-Year Roadmap

The collaboration began in spring 2021 at Lancaster High School. Where ESG replaced aging HVAC units and upgraded outdated building automation systems, with enhanced ventilation and wireless controls, school leaders could monitor and adjust airflow across campus, improving indoor air quality while reducing energy use.

The success of that first project led to something bigger: a multi-phase, district-wide facilities renewal plan. Over the next four years, ESG and AVUHSD worked together on six distinct project phases across more than a dozen school sites, including Desert Winds, Littlerock, Palmdale, Highland, and SOAR High.

Cleaner Air, Smarter Systems

Together, AVUHSD and ESG replaced over 600 HVAC units that had exceeded their useful life with high-efficiency models. As a vendor- and equipment-agnostic partner, ESG selects solutions based on performance and longevity, not brand. Every recommendation is made with long-term durability in mind. In California’s high-heat climate, that means choosing equipment designed to last, not just today, but for the hotter, harsher summers 20 years from now.

School Facilities were equipped with:

- New and upgraded major mechanical HVAC equipment
- CO₂ sensors and occupancy-based scheduling to optimize air changes and energy use
- Centralized control systems for classrooms, gyms, and administrative buildings
- Wireless thermostats that offer real-time temperature and ventilation data
- Building automation tools that help staff manage systems proactively

The result? Better comfort, healthier air, and reduced risk of breakdowns, all without disrupting day-to-day school operations.

According to the EPA, improving indoor air quality can help schools increase student performance, reduce absenteeism, and even boost teacher and staff productivity. For AVUHSD, these upgrades were about more than equipment; they were an investment in student and staff success.

A Smarter Way to Fund Projects

One of the district’s biggest challenges wasn’t knowing what needed to be done; it was figuring out how to pay for it. ESG helped AVUHSD secure and combine funding from multiple sources, including ESSER, CARES, CalSHAPE, and other California state programs.

By leveraging these funding streams and structuring the project through an energy savings performance model, AVUHSD could move forward without any upfront capital outlay. That financial flexibility allowed the district to phase improvements over time, prioritizing the highest-need areas, and maintain budget stability.

To date, the district has invested over $36 million in modernizing school facilities and is on track to achieve over $42.7 million in energy and operational savings. With ESG’s support, AVUHSD is creating safer, smarter, and healthier learning environments across the district.

A Future-Focused District

In a time when families are evaluating school quality more closely than ever, AVUHSD’s investment in infrastructure sends a clear message: student health and academic success are top priorities. Cleaner air means fewer absences, improved focus, and a stronger sense of well-being for both students and staff.

This transformation also supports the broader community. Schools often serve as gathering spaces during events and emergencies, and with resilient systems in place, AVUHSD buildings are now better equipped to serve in that role. With upgraded HVAC units, smart controls, and improved ventilation, the district has laid the foundation for healthy indoor environments for years to come.

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Seize the Solar Moment: Why K12 Leaders are Moving Quickly

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:37:05 +0000

Seize the Solar Moment: Why K12 Leaders are Moving Quickly

Funding opportunities for solar projects created in the IIJA are rapidly changing, and the incentive window expires soon. With material costs rising and tariffs expected to increase, school districts that delay implementation may soon face higher price tags for the same systems. Schools considering solar should act now, while the economics still work strongly in their favor.

According to Generation 180, more than 1 in 9 students today attend a school powered by solar energy. From reducing long-term utility expenses to creating energy security, renewable energy offers districts a practical way to stretch tight budgets and deliver community value. That is why thousands of schools have already taken advantage of the existing funding mechanisms to install solar, and why more leaders are moving quickly before costs climb further.

The following are just a few of the benefits compelling districts to initiate these upgrades now.

Economic Benefits

Operations is usually the second biggest line item in school district budgets, driven by utility and maintenance costs. Schools using solar power now report offsetting their electric bills by up to 90 percent. They can reallocate the money saved into improving the educational experience for their students without having to ask traditional funding sources for more money.

While upgrading to renewable energy has upfront costs, a host of funding sources are available. Resourceful administrators stack many different funding sources to significantly reduce the initial costs of installing renewable energy infrastructure. Over time, the reduction in utility bills more than pays for any remaining installation costs, feeding those savings back into the budget.

Discover more funding strategies in our free guide, The Superintendent’s Guide to School Revitalization.

Educational Benefits

When less of their budget is allocated to energy expenses, school districts can direct more of their budget on things that elevate learner outcomes. This includes adding new technology to classrooms, hiring to reduce student-to-teacher ratios, and tackling deferred maintenance lists.

In addition, installing and operating renewable energy can be a hands-on learning opportunity for students via the STEAM curriculum, as seen at Onsted Community Schools. This school used its new solar installation as the foundation for new curriculum on clean and renewable energy. These classes help prepare students for the workforce with hands-on learn opportunities for the growing demand for green jobs in communities across the country.

Community Benefits

Times of crisis due to extreme weather require safe, temperature-controlled facilities, with consistent access to power. Combining renewable energy solutions like solar and geothermal with battery storage and microgrid solutions means more schools can remain open and even serve as places of refuge when everything else is closed. The entire community benefits when schools can keep their doors open and remain operational, even when the grid goes down.

Schools are typically some of the largest landowners and employers in their communities. Naturally positioned with leadership opportunities, schools making the switch to renewable energy serve as a powerful example to the community. A school district touches many lives beyond students and teachers – reaching the entire community at large to share in the benefits of clean, reliable energy.

Position your district as a community leader in renewable energy. Get actionable insights in The Superintendent’s Guide to School Revitalization.

Environmental Benefits

With a much grander scale than the average home, school districts that add renewable energy generation can significantly change a community’s impact on the environment. In this way, shrinking a district-wide carbon footprint multiplies the money savings and the benefits of reducing fossil fuel usage for the entire community. Replacing legacy infrastructure with renewable energy propels school districts forward toward sustainability goals.

Public Relations Benefits

In today’s competitive education landscape, school districts can differentiate themselves positively and become destination districts. Being a school district on the way to net zero energy provides a triple benefit to the community:

Appeal to homebuyers with modern, sustainable schools.
Create budget stability, reducing the impact of rising utility costs.
Engage students with real-world green technologies that spark interest in STEAM career paths.

Renewable energy in school districts provides a plethora of opportunities for creating positive narratives and trust-building in the communities they serve while attracting new families.

The Challenge & The Solution

Time and money are challenges for all organizations, especially school districts. Designing custom renewable energy infrastructure requires careful planning, so partnering with an organization that specializes in energy efficiency and sustainability (specifically in schools) is important.

Energy Systems Group helps districts navigate the transition to renewable energy by connecting them with funding resources and assisting with design and implementation. Their expertise in this area comes from helping hundreds of K12 districts all over the United States reduce their energy costs and improve energy reliability and resiliency.

Transform your district’s future with renewable energy solutions that save money, inspire students, and strengthen communities. Download The Superintendent’s Guide to School Revitalization to explore practical strategies today.

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New Mexico Community Turns Water Loss into Revenue Recovery

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 19:08:49 +0000

New Mexico Community Turns Water Loss into Revenue Recovery

As shrinking aquifers force difficult choices between growth and conservation in the American Southwest, one historic mining town in New Mexico found a way to transform a pending water crisis into a conservation success story. Silver City's journey demonstrates how innovative financing can turn urgent infrastructure needs into revenue-generating solutions—without raising rates or burdening taxpayers.

A Smart Plan in Need of Funding

Nestled at 6,000 feet above sea level, Silver City is home to Western New Mexico University, a vibrant arts community, and approximately 10,000 residents. The town’s rich heritage, picturesque downtown, and recreational opportunities also regularly draw tourists to the area. However, leaders of this thriving community faced a potential crisis: ensuring adequate water supplies for current residents, businesses, and nearby mining operations.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. The Mimbres Basin, a source for Silver City’s groundwater, has been declining for decades, even as groundwater diversions have steadily grown. Drought, severe heat, and irregular rainfall patterns put additional pressure on an already strained resource.

Recognizing they had few options for generating new water, Silver City's leaders took action. The town established a comprehensive Water Conservation Plan designed to reduce waste, minimize outdoor water use, incentivize conservation behavior, and increase transparency around water usage to the community.

The plan was grounded in rigorous analysis. A top-down evaluation of the water system, conducted according to American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) best practices, revealed the aging meter infrastructure was failing the community. The audit determined that replacing outdated meters with smart technology that offers real-time leak detection and improved accuracy should be the first priority.

The challenge was funding the upgrade without adding debt or raising rates—a common dilemma facing municipalities throughout the region.

Innovative Financing Strategies

After two years, community leaders identified an innovative funding solution: energy performance contracting. This financing mechanism would allow the town to use future revenue streams and operational savings to fund the new metering system. The solution provided a path forward that aligned with the conservation plan’s goals.

Silver City partnered with Energy Systems Group (formerly Yearout Energy) to advance this critical initiative. Before proposing a solution, ESG's engineering team conducted a comprehensive investment-grade audit. The audit analyzed factors such as water balance, baseline utility data, existing meter accuracy, and revenue projections.

The findings were striking: Silver City was losing approximately 18.2% of its water to leaks and waste. In addition, inaccurate meters contributed to revenue loss for the town. With this data in hand, ESG worked with municipal leaders to select the optimal equipment and technology and to develop a clear scope of work with guaranteed maximum pricing.

Transforming Operations, Recovering Resources

Energy Systems Group oversaw the complete meter replacement program, which allowed community staff to stay focused on daily operations. The comprehensive implementation replaced 6,500 existing meters with smart meters featuring steady-state automatic meter reading technology and real-time leak detection capabilities.

The transformation delivered immediate, measurable results:

Increased Revenue. Meter accuracy jumped from 93.7% to 98.5%, recovering $245,000 annually in revenue.
Water Recovery: The project has reclaimed 30 million gallons annually by enabling utility staff to rapidly identify and address leaking or broken infrastructure.
Operational Efficiency: The elimination of manual meter readings has freed up staff to focus on higher-priority infrastructure needs, while improved water conservation has reduced wear on pumping systems.

The $3.74 million project carries a payback period of just over 14 years, with all savings applied directly toward debt service to maintain the town's budget-neutral commitment.

A Solution for Water Conservation

Silver City's success demonstrates how forward-thinking communities can address infrastructure challenges without shifting costs to residents. The project proves that aging infrastructure doesn't have to be a financial burden when innovative financing meets smart technology.

As water scarcity intensifies throughout the western states, Silver City's model offers a proven path forward. The town's partnership with Energy Systems Group shows that municipalities can achieve their conservation goals, improve their bottom line, and prepare for future growth—all while maintaining fiscal responsibility that serves both current residents and generations to come.

Boost efficiency and reduce costs. Explore our local and state government solutions.

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How to Refresh Public Facilities for Maximum Impact

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 18:48:51 +0000

How to Refresh Public Facilities for Maximum Impact

While you're managing budgets and priorities, your outdated infrastructure is making decisions for you.

Every municipal leader recognizes this tension. You’re simultaneously managing pressure from constituents to update facilities and amenities without increasing their tax burden, while competing to attract businesses and homeowners to increase your tax base. Unfunded mandates and nonnegotiable needs eat into your bottom line. And you must navigate it all with fragmented funding streams that rarely match the scope or timing of your actual projects.

Capital needs are constant, and so is the lack of funding or resources to meet those needs.

The good news? Strategic infrastructure investments can address multiple pressures simultaneously. When you connect building improvements to community priorities, you transform necessary maintenance into visible wins that residents understand and support.

Three Ways to Approach Infrastructure Upgrades—And Sell Them to Your Community

The most important capital investments don’t always contribute to a sense of shared benefit within the community. It’s understandably hard for taxpayers to connect infrastructure upgrades to amenities they care about. The key is using data to identify needs and explaining why and how addressing them will benefit your community.

Consider these three strategies for infrastructure upgrades.

1) Tackling Deferred Maintenance

Deferred maintenance is the bane of many facility and operations managers. These projects are continually backburnered due to a lack of sufficient capital, time, or resources. However, pushing systems past their breaking point can add up to costly repairs or total system failure later.

According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat is the number one weather-related killer. If your community center's end-of-life HVAC system fails during a heat wave, you've lost more than money. You've damaged public trust in your leadership when people needed you most. In this case, investing in a new system is not a luxury; it’s a public safety measure.

Tackling your deferred maintenance list does not always require a complete systems overhaul. It could be as simple as optimizing existing systems or making targeted upgrades while stretching your resources further.

2) Capitalizing on Economic Development and Sports Tourism

People want to spend their time and dollars in places that are attractive and feel safe. And where people go, economic activity follows. Investing in curb appeal—streetscaping, historic streetlights, well-lit parking, freshly painted buildings, modern park equipment—will draw visitors, tourists, and, potentially, new residents and taxpayers.

Sports tourism alone can generate significant revenue through rentals while boosting local hotels, restaurants, and retailers. Landing the next big sports tournament may require sprucing up field lighting and park facilities. But the return on investment could generate economic growth and enhance your community’s reputation as a destination.

3) Investing in Cost-Cutting Measures

Utility costs often consume a disproportionate share of municipal budgets, especially in older buildings. Outdated lighting, leaky building envelopes, aging windows, and inefficient HVAC systems drain resources while creating uncomfortable environments for staff and visitors.

Investing in cost-cutting measures does not necessarily require a complete overhaul of your facilities. Converting to LED lighting can cut electricity use by 50%, with automated controls saving an additional 80%, according to the U.S. General Services Administration. Even simpler measures—occupancy sensors, automated faucets, HVAC retrocommissioning, or sealing gaps around windows—deliver substantial cost reductions.

Every dollar saved can be channeled into amenities the public values, such as new bike paths, public space improvements, or even community programs.

Taking a Comprehensive Approach to Infrastructure Investment

So where to start? The most effective first step is a comprehensive energy audit to establish your baseline and identify opportunities. The assessment should examine:

HVAC and major mechanical systems

Building automation systems

Indoor and outdoor lighting systems

Energy and water conservation systems

Building envelopes (roof, windows, and doors)

Rethink energy consumption in your community

It’s critical to approach these components as an interconnected system rather than as isolated elements. A holistic approach often reveals cost-effective solutions that wouldn't be as apparent when examining each system separately.

For example, consider a historic courthouse with unsustainable utility bills. Replacing the entire HVAC system might appear to be the most obvious solution to curb costs. But a holistic analysis could reveal that replacing old windows with more energy-efficient systems could reduce HVAC demands while improving occupant comfort—delivering better results at lower cost.

You don’t need to go it alone. The key is to find a partner who understands both the engineering and the people sides of the equation to help you identify, prioritize, and streamline your capital planning process. Look for expertise that spans initial energy audits through funding strategies, design, implementation, and commissioning. The right partner will help you prioritize projects logically, identify funding opportunities across departments, and structure improvements to maximize both your budget and your political capital.

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Facilities Under Pressure: Creating Resilient School Buildings

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:59:30 +0000

Facilities Under Pressure: Creating Resilient School Buildings

With record-breaking temperatures and more active-than-usual hurricane seasons over the recent years, school leaders are facing an urgent question: Will our school buildings withstand the pressures of extreme weather?

Extreme weather is no longer a rare disruption, it’s becoming a regular challenge. From heatwaves that overwork outdated HVAC systems to hurricanes that test the strength of aging roofs and windows, facility infrastructure plays a direct role in how schools can protect students, maintain learning environments, and serve as a community anchor in times of crisis.

The good news? Building resilience doesn’t have to happen all at once. With the right strategy and the right partners, districts can prioritize upgrades that offer both immediate impact and long-term stability.

A Resiliency Roadmap for Schools

Not sure where to begin? Our Extreme Weather Prep Fact Sheet outlines a practical, three-tiered framework to help you plan. Inspired by the hierarchy of needs, it ranks upgrades based on the urgency of risk and potential benefit.

Level 1: Upgrade Outdated Infrastructure

Start with the basics. During extreme heat or storms, your school’s weakest points are often its oldest systems—HVAC, electrical, and water infrastructure. If these systems fail, the building can’t function, and more advanced improvements won’t matter.

More than 50% of U.S. public school districts need to update or replace major building systems, according to the Government Accountability Office. HVAC equipment in particular is under stress during long, hot summers, and failure can lead to closures, safety concerns, and unplanned costs.

Resilient schools begin with reliable operations. Prioritize mechanical and electrical upgrades to ensure your buildings can stay open when they’re needed most.

Level 2: Strengthen Your Building Envelope

Heat, humidity, and wind-driven rain can easily compromise vulnerable buildings. A secure envelope, roof, walls, windows, and doors, keeps conditioned air in and storm elements out. It’s your facility’s first line of defense.

Our building envelope solutions help schools address chronic issues like air leaks, moisture infiltration, and poor insulation. These small-seeming problems can lead to big consequences, including mold growth, structural damage, and escalating energy bills.

In storm-prone areas, high-performance window systems and roof reinforcements can also reduce damage and downtime after a storm. In heatwave conditions, a tighter envelope keeps cool air inside longer, lightening the load on HVAC systems and reducing energy use.

Level 3: Add On-Site Power for Energy Security

Once critical repairs have been addressed, the next level of resilience is power independence. Renewable energy systems like solar panels or even microgrids can help schools maintain power even when the grid goes down.

While not every district is ready for a full microgrid, even a modest investment in on-site solar can stabilize utility costs and reduce outages. Case in point: Onsted Community Schools leveraged solar power to unlock broader funding, enhance learning environments, and build long-term savings.

According to Stanford University, installing solar on available school rooftops could allow K-12 schools to meet up to 75% of their energy needs and reduce the sector’s carbon footprint by nearly 30%. That’s a powerful win for sustainability, savings, and community leadership.

Progress over Perfection

Creating safer, more resilient school environments doesn't have to happen all at once. Every upgrade, from replacing outdated equipment to securing your building envelope or investing in on-site solar, is a step in the right direction to adding value, security, and stability to your facilities.

We work alongside school leaders to identify vulnerabilities, unlock funding pathways, and implement strategic improvements that support both daily operations and long-term goals. Whether you’re preparing for record heat, stronger storms, or both, we can help you develop a strategic, phased plan that helps your district move forward with confidence.

Download the Weather Prep Fact Sheet

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Manufacturing a Greener Future: Steam Recovery at PVS Chemicals

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 18:13:35 +0000

Manufacturing a Greener Future: Steam Recovery at PVS Chemicals

Imagine a Chicago manufacturing facility not just making essential chemicals but also generating its own power and sending excess back to the grid. That’s the remarkable story unfolding at PVS Chemicals (PVS), thanks to a transformative partnership with Energy Systems Group (ESG). This is about more than technical upgrades; it's a vision realized, a commitment to a sustainable future, and a testament to American ingenuity.

Transforming Steam Waste to Renewable Power

Since the Chicago, IL plant was constructed in 1896, it relied on external electricity. When PVS purchased it, they began to cast a vision of one day being able to harness the waste steam, a byproduct of the sulfuric acid the manufacturing plant creates. However, they needed a partner to custom-design and build the system without causing any production downtime in the process. It was a tall order, and they knew they could count on Energy Systems Group to deliver.

ESG’s engineers worked around PVS’s needs and challenges to draft a design and a construction plan. Today, the byproduct steam powers a turbine that generates electricity, drastically cutting costs and reducing environmental impact.

“No one likes waste, and for many years we researched how to harness our wasted energy. I could not be more pleased that the completion of this project is the solution to harnessing our waste energy and reducing our carbon footprint.”

— David Nicholson, President and Chief Executive Officer, PVS Chemicals, INC.

Technical Implementation

- Waste-to-Steam Power Generation: ESG designed and installed a system to capture previously vented steam from PVS's sulfuric acid production process. This captured steam drives a high-speed turbine operating at 4,800 RPM.
- Electrical Power Generation: The turbine is mechanically coupled to an electrical generator, producing 2.6 MW of electrical power. This on-site generation significantly reduces PVS's reliance on external electricity providers.
- Condensate Recovery: After passing through the turbine, the steam is condensed back into water and recirculated within the plant, minimizing water consumption and optimizing resource utilization.
- System Integration: ESG engineered a solution that seamlessly integrates with PVS's existing infrastructure, requiring minimal operational downtime. The design addressed the logistical constraints of an urban manufacturing environment, including limited space and existing utility networks.

New Steam Capture Turbine

Engineering Challenges and Solutions

Urban Site Constraints

Building in the heart of Chicago presents its own set of complexities. Tight spaces, existing utilities, and the constant hum of urban life demand smart, tailored solutions. ESG delivered just that: a compact, efficient, and reliable system that seamlessly integrates into PVS’s ongoing operations. Their solutions respect the unique urban environment and ensure that while energy generation is a key advantage, the primary focus remains on delivering essential chemicals.

Production Continuity

Recognizing PVS's 24/7 operation and limited maintenance windows, ESG implemented a phased installation approach. They performed initial infrastructure modifications during a scheduled shutdown and then completed final system integration and commissioning during a subsequent maintenance period. This strategy ensured uninterrupted production.

Unexpected Project Variances

Implementing such a significant change required meticulous planning. With only brief planned shutdown windows, every minute counted. ESG’s detailed roadmap ensured minimal disruption, even as they faced the inevitable challenges of any major project.

The team proactively managed project challenges, including unexpected subsurface conditions, permitting delays, and supply chain disruptions. They effectively mitigated these issues through transparent communication and collaborative problem-solving with PVS.

Project Outcomes

- Cost Reduction: The on-site power generation system significantly reduces PVS's energy costs, resulting in substantial financial savings.
- Energy Independence: PVS’s Chicago plant now generates a significant portion of its own electricity, enhancing energy security and reducing dependence on external providers.
- Sustainability Enhancement: The project reduces PVS's carbon footprint by capturing and utilizing waste steam, contributing to improved environmental performance.
- Competitive Advantage: The implementation of sustainable practices enhances PVS's market position, aligning with increasing customer demand for environmentally responsible products.

More Than Compliance: A Vision for the Future

While reducing impact to the environment is important, this project goes beyond “the right thing to do”. It’s a win for the people who live and work at or near the PVS Chicago plant, now and in the future.

Energy costs are one of the biggest line items in manufacturers' budgets. The 2.6 MW waste-to-steam power plant now operating at PVS reduces and stabilizes that line item by millions. It puts PVS's cost of electricity generation and a significant portion of the plant’s water supply in the hands of PVS rather than outside providers.

In addition, customers in the United States and worldwide are seeking to work with responsible suppliers, as they work to reduce their own negative impact on the planet. By implementing this steam capture system, PVS operates a cleaner manufacturing process, keeps manufacturing jobs in the U.S., and increases its market share, a win-win for all involved.

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Energy Systems Group Launches 25-Year Partnership with Fort Bragg to Enhance Energy Infrastructure and Mission Readiness

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Fri, 16 May 2025 13:34:58 +0000

Energy Systems Group Launches 25-Year Partnership with Fort Bragg to Enhance Energy Infrastructure and Mission Readiness

Energy Systems Group (ESG), a leading provider of energy and infrastructure solutions, is proud to announce the commencement of a 25-year partnership with U.S. Army Base Fort Bragg, to provide comprehensive Operations & Maintenance (O&M) services for the installation's central energy plants (CEPs), effective May 1, 2025. This long-term collaboration underscores ESG's commitment to supporting the U.S. Army's primary mission readiness directive, while improving soldiers' quality of life through reliable and efficient energy infrastructure.

Steve Smith, Vice President Federal Business Unit

Supporting Mission Readiness

Fort Bragg’s Department of Public Works will collaborate with ESG to execute the changeover of all facility operations and maintenance under the 25-year team contract. The contract includes immediate construction upgrades and long-term services, with 33 full-time employees serving the base.

"We are honored to commence a new relationship with Fort Bragg through this critical project," said Steve Smith, V.P. Federal Business for Energy Systems Group.

"Providing uninterrupted, high-performance operations for the central energy plants is vital to safeguarding the Army’s mission and supporting the daily needs of our nation's soldiers. This project exemplifies ESG’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and service to those who serve our country."

Fort Bragg: A Strategic Military Hub with Expansive Needs

Fort Bragg is the Army’s premier power projection platform and the largest military installation by population. It trains an average of one million service members annually across more than 164,000 acres. The installation supports a combined population of approximately 240,000, including over 48,000 active-duty soldiers, 16,000 Army civilians and contractors, 80,000 family members, and 97,000 retirees and their families. A self-sustaining community, Fort Bragg offers nine schools, 12 child development centers, comprehensive medical care, and a wide range of shopping, dining, and recreational amenities, underscoring the critical importance of reliable infrastructure to everyday life and mission readiness.

This contract with Energy Systems Group lays the foundation for future initiatives at Fort Bragg, including a Phase II Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) focused on modernizing central plant infrastructure and control systems, and a Deep Energy Retrofit Analysis designed to help Fort Bragg identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption by 40% across key facilities.

A Continued Commitment to the Department of Defense

Energy Systems Group is proud to stand alongside Fort Bragg and the U.S. Army to advance mission readiness, enhance quality of life, and help create a more resilient and efficient future for our nation’s defense infrastructure.

With a legacy of three decades of Department of Defense partnerships, ESG is proud to continue supporting the Army’s mission through efficient and resilient energy solutions. In the last five years alone, ESG has helped deliver over $160 million in cost savings for the Department of Defense while improving energy reliability and performance on U.S. Installations. This new chapter at Fort Bragg, reflects ESG’s deep commitment to helping the Department of Defense achieve its readiness, efficiency, and modernization goals—today and for the next generation.

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Outcome-Based Design-Build: An Ideal Path for Facility Renewal

ecassidy@energysystemsgroup.com — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 01:00:47 +0000

Outcome-Based Design-Build: An Ideal Path for Facility Renewal

For public or even long-standing private institutions, maintaining facilities isn’t just about quick fixes—it’s about long-term planning, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Traditional design-build contracts may focus on completing projects on time and within budget, but they often fail to consider the bigger picture: How will this investment perform over its entire lifecycle? Will it maximize energy efficiency? Will it stand the test of time?

That’s where outcome-based design-build comes in. Unlike conventional design-build firms, we integrate the engineering principles of Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) into our approach to renovating and repairing aging buildings, ensuring that facilities are fully functional and optimized for long-term performance and cost savings.

Why Outcome-Based Design-Build is the Superior Choice

Most public officials—whether superintendents, county managers, or university administrators—have a singular goal: to serve their community. Managing a portfolio of public infrastructure that needs constant maintenance and repair is a consistent (and often financially draining) challenge.

For private commercial or industrial owners and managers, long-term assets that need constant maintenance and repair is a challenge when balancing this with profitability and quality of the available product or service of that business.

With the now-known knowledge that 85% of a building's infrastructure cost is over the life of the asset, and not in the first cost, industry trends show that traditional design-build contractors may lack the analytical tools to calculate how long equipment will last and make recommendations that serve communities' or businesses' longer-term needs. This leads to short-term solutions that may result in higher maintenance costs and premature replacements.

The Benefits of an Outcome-Based Design-Build Approach:

Lifecycle Cost Analysis – We assess the total lifecycle cost of infrastructure beyond initial costs, ensuring that decisions made today will benefit facilities operations and cost for decades to come.

Superior Equipment Selection – Unlike firms focused solely on upfront costs, we help clients select equipment based on long-term energy efficiency and operational reliability.

Energy Performance Integration – Our approach is unique because we combine the essentials of energy efficiency and building performance with traditional design-build, creating better overall cost structures and optimized outcomes.

Tailored Solutions for Public Institutions – From enhancing learning environments in schools to increasing efficiency in government buildings or upgrading university infrastructure, we deliver customized solutions that align with your priorities and community goals.

Tailored Solutions for Private Institutions – Whether it’s improving the Net Operating Income of a real estate asset, optimizing the quality control of a production facility, or expanding the revenue generating capability of a physical asset, we customize our approach to meet the unique needs of each client.

The Outcome-Based Design Build Difference: A Dual-Force Approach

Most firms specialize in either design-build or ESPC—but we bring the best of both worlds together. We still maintain the key components of a design-build firm, like maintaining a single point of contact that enables a project to be implemented on time and on budget. Our dual-force approach brings in abilities like assisting with grant and funding sources and provides clients with a comprehensive strategy that ensures their facilities operate efficiently long after the project is completed while maintaining each method's benefits.

Planning for Generations to Come

Public institutions often operate buildings for 50-70 years before replacing them. Many private sector businesses are now owning assets for even 20-30 years more commonly. With our outcome-based design-build, we help clients extend the useful life of their facilities, ensuring that infrastructure remains functional and efficient for as long as possible.

Many general contractors and traditional design-build firms simply lack the expertise to perform these critical calculations. As an accredited Energy Services Company (ESCO), we have the tools to leverage data and deep industry expertise to make wiser long-term decisions, giving our clients confidence that their investments will pay off for generations to come.

Take the Next Step with Energy Systems Group

If you’re looking for a smarter way to renew your facilities, outcome-based design-build is the answer. As a design-builder with access to a broader set of solutions, we have the experience and expertise to help you maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and extend the life of your buildings.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to explore how our approach can transform your facilities for the long haul.

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