ABM Helps County Prioritize Health and Safety with $1.8 Million Projected Savings
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Insights
The initiation of an Energy Performance Contracting program by ABM for the Clarke County Commission represents a significant step towards energy efficiency and operational cost savings. This kind of program, which focuses on upgrades to HVAC systems and lighting technology, is becoming increasingly common as local governments seek ways to reduce energy consumption and save on long-term costs.
From an energy efficiency standpoint, the integration of advanced controls and lighting systems can lead to substantial reductions in energy usage. The expected $1.8 million in cost savings over 20 years is a testament to the potential financial benefits of such upgrades. Moreover, the use of needlepoint bi-polar ionization equipment is a forward-thinking approach to indoor air quality, which can have positive implications for public health and may also contribute to a reduction in building-related illnesses, potentially decreasing healthcare costs in the long run.
However, it is important to consider the initial costs and the return on investment period. Although the program is designed to fund itself through the cost savings generated, the actual savings must be closely monitored to ensure they align with projections. Additionally, the technology implemented must be maintained properly to sustain efficiency levels over time.
ABM's Energy Performance Contracting program offers a financially viable option for local governments like Clarke County to address deferred infrastructure investments without incurring immediate expenses. This is particularly relevant for municipalities facing budget constraints yet needing to upgrade aging facilities.
By redirecting savings from reduced operational costs to fund facility needs, the county is effectively leveraging future savings to finance current improvements. This approach can be financially beneficial, as it avoids the need for upfront capital or tax increases, which can be politically and socially challenging to implement.
The long-term financial impact of these improvements on Clarke County's budget and the potential influence on the county's credit rating should be considered. Successful implementation and realized savings could positively impact the county's financial standing, while failure to achieve projected savings could put strain on future budgets. It is important for the county to have a robust monitoring system to ensure the performance guarantees promised by ABM are met.
The adoption of ABM's Energy Performance Contracting program by Clarke County is indicative of a broader trend towards sustainability in public sector infrastructure. Such programs align with global sustainability goals and can improve a municipality's environmental footprint, which is increasingly important to citizens and stakeholders.
The program's emphasis on energy savings, water conservation and improved air quality not only has environmental benefits but can also enhance the quality of life for community members. Additionally, the modernization of infrastructure with state-of-the-art technology can serve as a model for other counties and increase the attractiveness of Clarke County to businesses and residents alike, potentially stimulating economic growth.
One potential drawback is the reliance on specific technologies that may become obsolete or less effective over time. To mitigate this risk, Clarke County should ensure that the contract with ABM includes provisions for future upgrades and technology refreshes, maintaining the sustainability and efficiency of the facilities over the full 20-year timeframe.
NEW YORK, April 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ABM (NYSE: ABM), a leading provider of integrated facility services, infrastructure solutions, and parking management, today announced the initiation of an Energy Performance Contracting program for the Clarke County Commission in Alabama. The project includes upgrades to HVAC systems, lighting technology, and related controls that are expected to create
“We focus on delivering energy projects that help communities accomplish more and modernize faster,” said Mark Hawkinson, President of ABM Technical Solutions. “Local leaders can compress timetables so that community members see the benefits of facility improvements sooner with our unique solutions.”
In addition to energy savings and operational cost reductions from lighting and HVAC upgrades, building envelope improvements, and water conservation measures, the project integrates and improves controls technology for the Clarke County Courthouse, including the 911 and Emergency Response office. The project also includes cameras and centralized door and lighting controls for the county jail to improve security and risk mitigation. To address indoor air quality for both county facilities, the project provides needlepoint bi-polar ionization equipment, an advanced pathogen and particle control measure.
“This project has truly been a team effort between the ABM and Clarke County staffs that expanded from a focus on deferred infrastructure investment into an opportunity to enhance facilities with state-of-the-art technology that our County can be proud of,” said Tyrone Moye, Clarke County Commission Chairman.
ABM’s Energy Performance Contracting Program enables local governments and others, such as schools and federal agencies, to invest in critical facility needs like air quality, infrastructure, and sustainability goals. The program is designed to drive costs out of a facility’s operating budget, redirecting savings to fund mission critical facility needs. This video outlines how ABM provides customized technical and financial solutions for government facilities without upfront costs or tax increases.
For more information on ABM, please visit abm.com.
About ABM
ABM (NYSE: ABM) is one of the world’s largest providers of facility services and solutions. A driving force for a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable world, ABM provides essential services and forward-looking performance solutions that improve the spaces and places that matter most. From curbside to rooftop, ABM’s comprehensive services include janitorial, engineering, parking, electrical and lighting, energy and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, HVAC and mechanical, landscape and turf, and mission critical solutions. ABM serves a wide range of industries—from commercial office buildings to universities, airports, hospitals, data centers, manufacturing plants and distribution centers, entertainment venues and more. Founded in 1909, ABM serves over 20,000 clients, with annualized revenue approaching
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