by Wade Yates, Special Projects Coordinator, Jefferson County Facilities and Construction Management
comments open from August 26 until September 14

More and more companies are going green everyday. So what is Jefferson County doing? A lot actually…With funds received from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act and rebates from Xcel Energy, Jefferson County is changing the way we use energy.

The Facilities and Construction Management Division has concluded the lengthy process of evaluating county buildings for energy efficiency and construction is set to begin to initiate the changes. The county can leverage longer payback from renewable energy technologies into the project by a combination of rebates, grant funds and low interest financing. The net affect is a robust energy conservation project to save money for years to come that includes renewable technologies, all within a 10-year payback.

Evaluation of our buildings showed us that taking steps like switching to a more energy efficient lighting system reduces our utility cost. This monthly utility savings can then be used to pay for the new lighting system over time.

New lights are just part of the story. Solar photovoltaic arrays will be installed at the Laramie Building on the Jefferson County Government Campus, the Evergreen Road & Bridge shop, Central Road & Bridge/Fleet facility north of Golden, the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport and the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Additionally, new parking lot lighting for the campus overflow lot will consist of off-grid solar poles with small wind turbines. The Laramie Building will also receive two small wind turbines located on the northwest side of the building.

The Administration and Courts Facility will be home to a demonstration solar photovoltaic array which can be viewed up close and personal by residents and visitors. Additionally, there will be a kiosk in the main atrium which will monitor and provide feedback on the systems installed so you can see the renewable energy being produced in real time.

Beyond the financial benefits, the county can expect to see a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) roughly equivalent to 4,000,000 lbs/year. It makes compelling, realistic business sense to go green in the office and also helps in our battle to save our environment.

From recycling to renewable energy, Jefferson County is uniquely positioned to play a key role in the community by enhancing our facilities – leading by example and embracing a sustainable work place.