Wittenberg University

Wittenberg Seeks State Funding To Support
Installation Of New Boiler Plant

A current photo of the steam plant attached to the HPER Center.

Springfield, Ohio — In hopes of simultaneously improving the efficiency of its campus boiler plant and maintaining the historical integrity of one of Wittenberg's most cherished buildings, university officials have decided to seek funds from the Ohio American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program.

The new boiler plant will replace a 40-year-old steam plant attached to the Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) Center that provides heat for more than 70 percent of the campus. The proposed high-efficiency, dual-fueled steam generation plant will cost $1.08 million, but it will result in estimated annual energy savings of 19 percent and cost savings of $105,479. The system, which will be installed above the existing boiler room in the HPER Center to allow for ease of access to plumbing, power and exhaust, includes two new HP Thermogenics steam boilers with dual fuel (natural gas and oil).

The installation will require modifications to two storage rooms to accommodate the new steam plant, including replacement of exterior doors and windows with louvers for ventilation, and a new flat rubber roof. In the process, Wittenberg will gain significant energy and cost savings.

A photo of the steam plant attached to the HPER Center taken in the 1960s.

University officials have determined that the proposed new boiler plant and related modifications to the equipment room and roof will not alter the distinctive characteristics of the historic property, which was originally built in the late 1920s. The HPER Center will continue to be used for its historic purposes of both campus recreation and central heating for the campus community. The physical features that contribute to the building's historical significance, including the brick façade, ornamental detailing and slate roof, will be preserved.

To educate the Wittenberg and Springfield communities about green energy and sustainable practices, Wittenberg University's Center for Civic and Urban Engagement will partner with the City of Springfield to host a Green Expo in fall 2010. The proposed event will feature demonstrations and exhibits to inform residents and small businesses about strategies, resources and financing to help them increase energy efficiencies and reduce waste in their homes and places of work.

The focus of the Green Expo will be on energy conservation, building upon the strong recycling program the City of Springfield already has in place. Vendors from throughout southern Ohio will be invited to conduct demonstrations and display their products and services. Banks and not-for-profit agencies, such as the Neighborhood Housing Partnership, will share information and provide counseling on available grants and loans.

The Wittenberg boiler plant project will serve as a case study, which will illustrate the value of investment and energy savings that recoup invested dollars over time.

Readers are encouraged to share their recommendations and concerns regarding the impact of the project on the HPER Center with John Paulsen, director of Wittenberg's Physical Plant, via e-mail.

Written by: Ryan Maurer

188-09

Contact: Ryan Maurer (937) 327-6114 Send a Message

Additional Headlines: • Book-Delivering Prof Named Ohio Professor of the Year • Senior Class Selects Livestrong President & CEO Doug Ulman As 2011 Commencement Speaker •Communication Program Honored Nationally With Top Award • Wittenberg University Art Students Finalists For Scholarship Award