Bernhard is expanding its service offerings in Utah with the launch of a new mechanical services team. Operating out of its Salt Lake City office, Bernhard will offer a comprehensive range of mechanical services to clients across the Wasatch Front, including annual preventative maintenance for HVAC systems, chillers, and cooling towers, along with equipment repair and replacement services.
The expansion aims to serve a wide range of sectors, including commercial, healthcare, hospitality, higher education, government, and more. With this offering, Bernhard will build on its well-established presence in Utah, where it has been providing energy engineering and commissioning services to clients such as the University of Utah, University of Utah Health, Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation, Utah Valley University, and Brigham Young University.
“The addition of the Utah service team will complement our current offerings, allowing us to better serve our customers while continuing to expand in the region,” said Michael Cooper, Division President of Sustainability.
Bernhard’s expanded presence in Utah comes at a strategic time, with the Winter Games set to return to Salt Lake City in 2034. The expansion is expected to create new career opportunities and foster relationships with local companies, further solidifying the firm’s role as a key player in the region’s infrastructure development, operations, and maintenance.
With more than 2,000 employees across 25 locations nationwide, including a team of 1,500 mechanical contracting professionals, Bernhard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to its clients. Bernhard’s Delivery Division offers complete MEP engineering and contracting solutions, delivering projects that meet client goals efficiently and safely.
By expanding its mechanical services in Northern Utah, Bernhard is poised to enhance its impact on the region, contributing to energy-efficient infrastructure and providing innovative solutions across multiple sectors.
Bernhard, a leader in energy infrastructure, has entered into a long-term Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) partnership with Abilene Christian University (ACU) to enhance ACU’s campus energy efficiency and sustainability. This unique partnership allows ACU to better focus on its core mission of student success and academic excellence.
Over the past several years, ACU has made significant investments in its central plant, with $15 million recently allocated for upgrades. However, this new partnership with Bernhard will free up significant capital resources to accelerate change and allow ACU to take its energy management to new heights by tapping into Bernhard’s expertise in optimizing energy systems. This agreement ensures ACU can complete necessary projects faster and more efficiently, enhancing student comfort and reallocating resources toward academic initiatives.
“Our partnership with Bernhard represents a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability and operational excellence,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, President of Abilene Christian University. “By leveraging Bernhard’s expertise in energy management, we can improve our infrastructure and focus more on what we do best—providing a world-class education to our students. This partnership will not only make our campus more efficient but also help us redirect our resources to continue enhancing the student experience.”
The project’s scope of work, valued at $84.3 million, bolsters ACU’s resilience and capacity for growth while also addressing a significant backlog of deferred maintenance (replacing assets that have surpassed their useful life). The project includes the installation of an 18 MWac solar array, upgrades to existing central cooling and heating systems, and improvements to HVAC, building automation, and lighting systems of most campus buildings.
The University continues to exemplify how diversified energy is a geographic strength of Texas, having recently received the first construction permit for a university nuclear reactor in the U.S. in the past 30 years. Investments in power and energy efficiency will provide unique opportunities for students to experience state-of-the-art equipment and unlock new job opportunities with long-term partners in these growing fields.
“Abilene Christian University’s commitment to innovation in both academics and campus operations makes this EaaS project a perfect fit,” said Rob Guthrie, CEO of Bernhard. “Our team is excited to bring our innovative energy solutions to ACU, improving energy efficiency while reducing costs and supporting the university’s bold goals for its future growth. This project aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver sustainable solutions for higher education institutions.”
CORE Energy, serving as the construction manager, will be responsible for delivering the up-front improvements required as part of the overall project. CORE will focus on executing the physical upgrades to ACU’s central plant and supporting systems, ensuring the university’s facilities are equipped to operate at peak efficiency for years to come.
“This EaaS partnership embodies the CORE values of integrity, fairness, continuous improvement, and results,” said Ronald Bordelon, President of CORE. “CORE is proud to expand our long relationship with ACU and Bernhard, fulfilling our mission to earn the trust of our employees, building partners, and clients. We look forward to bringing value to ACU for many years to come.”
The financial structure of this partnership provides ACU with an upfront cash consideration of $78.3 million to support improvements and significant tax benefits after construction is completed. This strategic collaboration aims to reduce energy consumption by 29% and save more than $140 million in utility costs over the partnership’s term.
ACU’s initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals promising to create hundreds of jobs, eliminating all scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions of ACU, and significantly enhancing local air quality and sustainability.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Abilene-Christian-students-mall-area-1.jpg54648192James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-10-28 10:23:312024-10-28 10:23:31Abilene Christian University Partners with Bernhard to Launch Major Energy Infrastructure Project
Bernhard is proud to announce the successful completion of the Midtown Lane Office project in Bentonville, Arkansas. Bernhard’s commitment to innovative building solutions harmonizing artistic form with operational functionality is highlighted throughout the project.
Bernhard was responsible for the Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire Protection (MEPFP) design and construction administration, as well as the lighting design for the project. Our experts’ ability to refine the balance between artistic form and function positioned Bernhard to bring the Midtown Lane Office vision to life. Our team’s innovative approach ensured the building’s infrastructure was efficient and seamlessly integrated with its architectural design.
“The Bernhard team took on the challenge of designing MEPFP systems to blend with the architectural design of the building, and the end result is an impressive building in downtown Bentonville that definitely stands out among the surrounding buildings in the area,” said Grant Logan, Director in Bernhard’s Engineering Division. “We look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional projects that balance form and function across the country.”
The Midtown Lane Office has several unique features, including integrated lighting and shade controls. The building’s lighting controls are synchronized with motorized window shades, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort. The office also has an innovative siphonic storm drain piping design, contributing to the building’s efficient water management.
Bernhard’s expertise and attention to detail were pivotal in completing the project with the highest standards. Our early adoption of Autodesk’s REVIT software, which allows for multi-disciplinary, computer-aided modeling capabilities, facilitated comprehensive coordination in our designs, ensuring cohesive and efficient project delivery.
One of the main challenges faced by the Bernhard team was ensuring that the MEPFP systems remained hidden to maintain the building’s high-end architectural aesthetics. This required meticulous coordination in placing Water Source Heat Pump units and ductwork, especially in spaces with open ceilings. Additionally, the exhaust piping for the generator was routed through a chase inside the building, concealing it from view while maintaining functionality.
Bernhard’s completion of the Midtown Lane Office project is a testament to our dedication to innovative design and engineering solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tim-Hursley_TH041724_PSW_MidTown_BVille_0315-scaled.jpg19202560James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-07-18 15:53:502024-07-18 15:53:50Bernhard Provides MEPFP Design in Cutting-Edge Midtown Lane Office Project
Utah Clean Energy (UCE), a nonprofit leader in climate solutions, has opened the Climate Innovation Center in downtown Salt Lake City. This milestone in UCE’s mission to combat climate change showcases their dedication to sustainability and innovation. Bernhard played a crucial role in this project by providing all HVAC commissioning services, ensuring that the building operates safely, reliably, and efficiently.
The Climate Innovation Center stands as a testament to UCE’s vision and commitment, transforming a 70-plus-year-old building into one of Salt Lake City’s most high-performing, net-zero buildings. This facility not only serves as UCE’s headquarters but also as a living laboratory to educate the public and business community about the significant role buildings play in addressing climate change.
From the project’s outset, the team faced challenges in developing a solid design to achieve a true net-zero building. As the project progressed, deviations from the original Basis of Design (BoD) were discovered, including changes to the Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS). Bernhard’s commissioning team held several meetings to ensure the correct sequences were integrated into the Building Automation System (BAS) and tested in all modes of operation. They worked closely with the manufacturer’s startup technician to identify and correct issues with condensate drain lines from the Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) system cassettes, preemptively addressing potential problems.
Bernhard’s involvement didn’t end with the initial commissioning. Teams collaborated with the owner and the lighting control system integrator to ensure the lighting sequences were correctly implemented. This attention to detail exemplifies Bernhard’s commitment to ensuring the Climate Innovation Center operates at peak efficiency.
Bernhard has been a long-time supporter of Utah Clean Energy and its vision for energy efficiency and renewable energy since its inception in 2001.
Innovative HVAC Solutions
Heating and cooling represent about 41% of the average commercial building’s energy consumption, making it a critical component in achieving net-zero energy status. The Climate Innovation Center’s HVAC system, optimized by Bernhard, incorporates several innovative components:
All Electric Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) with Heat Recovery : Because of the well insulated exterior, the system was able to be downsized – reducing first cost and life-long operating costs. The VRF system also includes two heat recovery units that can share heat across the building – from south exposure to north exposure for example – through refrigerant flow.
Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS) with Evaporative Cooling: Provides fresh air, transfers energy from exhaust air to incoming air via an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV), and includes a direct evaporative section for pre-cooling incoming air.
Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV): Pre-conditions fresh air using energy captured from exhaust air, reducing the energy needed for heating or cooling.
Ceiling Fans and Passive Natural Ventilation Mode: Allows for natural ventilation when conditions are optimal, saving energy and increasing comfort.
These components work together to maximize efficiency and minimize energy consumption, crucial steps toward achieving net-zero energy certification.
Educating and Inspiring the Community
The Climate Innovation Center is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of what is possible in the fight against climate change. UCE’s founder, Sarah Wright, described the center as a “living laboratory” that will serve as an educational tool for the public and the business community. By documenting the steps taken to achieve zero energy, the center provides a blueprint for others to follow.
A Vision for the Future
The announcement event for the Climate Innovation Center included the filling of a time capsule, where attendees added notes capturing their hopes and visions for a healthy future. This capsule will be opened in 2042, offering future generations a chance to reflect on the progress made in mitigating climate change.
Bernhard’s role in the Climate Innovation Center highlights the importance of commissioning services in achieving net-zero energy goals. The Climate Innovation Center stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when organizations like UCE and Bernhard come together to create a sustainable future.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240617_135316-scaled.jpg25601440James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-07-01 13:39:412024-07-01 13:39:41Utah Clean Energy Unveils the Climate Innovation Center with Bernhard’s Expertise in HVAC and Commissioning Services
Adventist Health has entered into a 30-year Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) partnership, with Bernhard to deliver and sustain a system-wide innovative energy transformation project. The partnership with Bernhard, North America’s largest turnkey EaaS provider, is highlighted by an approximately 20% guaranteed reduction in Adventist Health’s annual utility spend, significant advancements in the system’s decarbonization efforts, and a material increase in reliability and resiliency across the network.
“Partnering with Bernhard aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire health, wholeness, and hope,” said John Beaman, Chief Financial Officer, Adventist Health. “The significant cost savings and environmental benefits we will realize through this initiative allow us to reinvest in our core mission-focused initiatives, ultimately enhancing the care we provide to our communities.”
The partnership, which is the largest Energy-as-a-Service project on record in United States history, involves $457 Million of upfront consideration; proceeds will be reinvested in energy-related infrastructure improvements systemwide. Bernhard will support Adventist as a long-term partner to optimally and most efficiently operate and maintain the new and existing energy assets. The guaranteed utility cost savings as a result of the program will offset implementation costs.
“This framework is a revolutionary solution to the healthcare industry that provides benefits in energy cost savings, reduced carbon emissions and improved resiliency of our infrastructure to support patient care and support future strategic growth,” said Brandon Seibold, Senior Finance Officer and Treasurer, Adventist Health.
The partnership with Bernhard will facilitate significant enhancements to Adventist Health’s sustainability efforts systemwide. Adventist Health Glendale, for example, will recognize a 61.1% reduction in purchased electricity and a 63.7% reduction in Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions.
“We are thrilled to partner with Adventist Health on this historic Energy-as-a-Service project,” said Rob Guthrie, Chief Executive Officer, Bernhard. “This collaboration not only underscores our commitment to delivering comprehensive energy solutions but also sets a new benchmark for the healthcare sector in energy efficiency and sustainability.”
The improvements across the Adventist Health campuses are expected to be completed within five years.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Adventist.jpg398800James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-06-21 09:49:132024-06-21 09:49:13Adventist Health and Bernhard Announce Groundbreaking Energy-as-a-Service Partnership
Bernhard, a leading Energy Infrastructure firm with more than a century of experience in the U.S., proudly announces Rob Guthrie’s transition to the role of Chief Executive Officer. Ed Tinsley, who has successfully led the company as CEO since 2018, will take on a new role within Bernhard as Senior Advisor and Board Member.
Under Tinsley’s leadership, Bernhard has seen substantial growth, cementing its status as the foremost Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) provider in the United States, particularly in the healthcare and higher education sectors. His tenure has been marked by numerous milestones, including:
The creation of safer workspaces surpassing industry standards.
Increasing our customer’s accumulated carbon footprint reductions from 8,000 tons of GHG emissions in 2018 to nearly 400,000 tons by the end of 2023.
Financial growth of a 310% increase in earnings, equating to a 25% annual growth rate.
Substantial growth in the EaaS sector, achieving a compounded annual growth rate of 45% from 2017 to 2023.
Tinsley will focus on mentoring employees and collaborating closely with clients to develop innovative energy solutions.
“Leading Bernhard has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has achieved, particularly our significant strides in safety, DEI, business resiliency, culture, and sustainability while simultaneously realizing substantial growth.” Tinsley said. “I look forward to continuing to contribute to Bernhard’s success in my new role.”
Rob Guthrie, who has been serving as Bernhard’s Chief Development Officer and CEO-in-waiting since 2021, steps into the CEO role with more than 20 years of industry experience. Guthrie has been instrumental in steering Bernhard towards its long-term vision, focusing on operational savings, growing Bernhard’s EaaS portfolio, and fostering more than 100 years of energy and infrastructure project experience. His leadership is expected to continue Bernhard’s legacy of innovation and sustainability.
“I’m honored to step into the CEO role at Bernhard, especially at such a pivotal moment in our company’s history,” Guthrie said. “Ed Tinsley’s leadership has set a high standard, and I am committed to building on our successes and driving forward our vision of innovation and sustainable energy solutions.”
Bernhard has a long history as a pacesetter in the ever-changing energy services industry, bolstered by the in-house expertise to deliver the right solution for customer needs. As an integrated team, Bernhard has the unique ability to self-perform every facet of a project in turnkey fashion. With approximately 2,200 employees across more than 20 office locations, Bernhard has financed over $1.7 billion in EaaS partnerships, leading the industry in the upcoming energy transition.
“Our financial growth and continued expansion has positioned Bernhard as a national leader in the energy and infrastructure space,” Guthrie said. “Such progress is a testament to the values of our people, the strength of our solutions, and the quality of our customer relationships. I could not be more excited to grow and protect the Bernhard legacy over the course of our next chapter”
About Bernhard
Bernhard is an energy infrastructure firm headquartered in New Orleans, LA. Founded in 1919, Bernhard’s core services span the US and include engineering, fabrication, construction, asset management, and energy-as-a-service for customers in healthcare, higher education, hospitality, industrial, and other market segments. Bernhard has more than 20 U.S. offices and more than 2,200 full-time employees.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Artboard-1-copy-2@3x-8.png32415760James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-06-11 10:10:052024-06-11 10:10:05Bernhard Announces CEO Transition as Rob Guthrie Steps into Leadership Role
Bernhard, one of America’s largest privately-owned infrastructure firms, announced a groundbreaking 30-year Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH), a leading healthcare institution in New Jersey.
Hackensack Meridian Health, a healthcare powerhouse operating 18 hospitals across eight counties, with nearly 4,000 licensed beds and a workforce of approximately 35,000 employees and 6,500 physicians, is set to own the largest solar and battery energy storage system of any not-for-profit healthcare provider in the U.S., thanks to this pioneering collaboration. Nearly 98 percent of the project scope is solar and battery storage, including 50,000 solar panels manufactured in the USA.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone in sustainable healthcare practices and underscores Hackensack Meridian Health’s unwavering commitment to energy resilience and environmental sustainability,” said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer at Hackensack Meridian Health
The agreement encompasses $134 million in infrastructure improvements, a 10 percent reduction in carbon emissions, a 25 percent decrease in purchased electricity, and 33 percent guaranteed energy savings. This project solidifies Hackensack Meridian Health‘s dedication to remaining the largest, most comprehensive, and truly integrated healthcare network in New Jersey, offering innovative research, life-enhancing care, and a complete range of medical services.
“Bernhard is proud to embark on this transformative journey with Hackensack Meridian Health, utilizing our expertise to deliver a turnkey Energy-as-a-Service solution that will not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability,” stated Bernhard Chief Executive Officer Ed Tinsley.
Bernhard, with more than 100 years of energy and infrastructure project experience, stands as the largest turnkey Energy-as-a-Service solutions provider in North America. The company combines development, financing, design, construction, and operations to offer comprehensive solutions that reduce energy use, risk, and cost for clients across various sectors, including healthcare, higher education, commercial, and specialty markets.
“This partnership puts Hackensack Meridian Health on course to meet critical sustainability and energy resilience goals – complementing the State’s initiatives to invest in renewable energy and reduce our carbon footprint,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. “I commend both Hackensack Meridian Health and Bernhard for embarking on this important partnership to bolster the energy infrastructure of New Jersey’s healthcare industry, ensuring hospitals are prepared to continue delivering quality care.”
Hackensack Meridian Health is already a leader in sustainability. Four of its hospitals were the first in the country to earn the Joint Commission’s Sustainable Healthcare Certification earlier this year. Hackensack University Medical Center, Bayshore Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, and Ocean University Medical Center met rigorous standards of performance to establish structure, rigor, and accountability to accelerate healthcare’s growing sustainability effort. The Joint Commission’s SHC provides a framework to help healthcare organizations begin, continue, or expand their decarbonization efforts. It builds on the momentum of healthcare organizations like Hackensack Meridian Health to lead the way in sustainability excellence by inspiring and guiding others who desire to prioritize greener practices.
The partnership between Bernhard and HMH is not only a testament to sustainable innovation but also a significant driver of economic growth. This collaboration sets the stage for a transformative impact on both the healthcare sector and the local workforce. Creating jobs is a cornerstone of this initiative, primarily through the engagement of construction and trades crews responsible for implementing energy-efficient solutions.
The workforce involved in executing these improvements becomes an integral part of fostering a greener and more sustainable future.
This partnership between Bernhard and Hackensack Meridian Health signifies a commitment to sustainable practices, operational efficiency, and the advancement of healthcare infrastructure. It sets the stage for a greener and more resilient future in the healthcare sector, showcasing the potential of long-term collaborations in creating lasting positive impacts on both business operations and the environment.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/HMH-EaaS.jpg14401920James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-04-19 11:07:302024-04-19 11:07:30Bernhard and Hackensack Meridian Health Forge a Transformative 30-Year Energy Partnership
Bernhard is proud to announce that its CEO, Ed Tinsley, has been inducted into the Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Arkansas. Tinsley joins an illustrious group of industry leaders in the 2024 class of inductees, recognized for their unwavering dedication to advancing the built environment through exceptional contributions to architecture, construction, and engineering.
The AGC Arkansas Hall of Fame’s rigorous nomination process identifies individuals who exemplify the highest standards of professional excellence, personal integrity, and community engagement. Ed Tinsley’s decades-long commitment to innovation, leadership, and service has garnered him this esteemed recognition.
Tinsley’s journey in the construction industry has been marked by transformative leadership and visionary initiatives. Under Tinsley’s stewardship, Bernhard has emerged as a leading Energy-as-a-Service provider in the United States, with a $1.3-billion portfolio of partnerships across the country.
Earlier this year, Bernhard announced its CEO succession plan, where on June 11, Tinsley will step down as CEO to assume a new role. In this role, he will focus on mentoring employees and working more closely with clients to create innovative energy solutions for their unique needs. This next chapter affords him the opportunity to impart wisdom, empower future leaders, and continue driving positive change within Bernhard and the broader community.
“I’m looking forward to re-focusing my time on mentorship and sharing the knowledge I’ve gained over the years with our employees,” Tinsley said. “I am beyond excited to get back to my roots and take on a new set of challenges.”
Throughout his six-year tenure as CEO, Tinsley has not only achieved business milestones but has also cultivated a culture of inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation within Bernhard. His commitment to addressing the firm’s carbon footprint, ensuring equitable wages for employees, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace environment underscores his dedication to social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and bettering the quality of his employees’ lives.
Tinsley’s technical expertise and visionary leadership have earned him widespread recognition and accolades from industry peers and professional organizations. With more than four decades of experience as an energy engineering professional and a staunch advocate for clients across various sectors, Tinsley has overseen the design and management of more than 300 construction projects totaling more than $5 billion in costs.
Tinsley’s profound impact extends beyond Bernhard’s corporate success. He has actively contributed to advancing the field of energy-efficient facility design, commissioning, and operation, further cementing his legacy as a thought leader and innovator in the industry.
In addition to his induction into the AGC Arkansas Hall of Fame, Tinsley will also be honored with induction into the University of Arkansas College of Engineering Hall of Fame on April 20, 2024. These accolades serve as a testament to his enduring legacy and indelible contributions to the engineering and construction sectors.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/435098119_946198057505968_5770026641310969851_n.jpg13662048James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-04-11 15:29:412024-04-11 15:29:41Bernhard CEO Ed Tinsley Inducted into AGC Arkansas Hall of Fame
The University of New Orleans (UNO) and Bernhard are proud to announce the installation of a state-of-the-art solar array on the UNO campus. This initiative marks a significant step forward in UNO’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
The comprehensive project, from initial feasibility testing to final interconnection validation, has been completed in just 10 months, showcasing the efficiency and dedication of both UNO and Bernhard teams.
The solar array comprises 3,300 panels, each rated at 565 Watts. In total, the array generates an impressive 1.78 MW DC / 1 MW AC of electricity, seamlessly integrating into UNO’s infrastructure to provide immediate benefits to the on-campus community.
Designed to never produce more electricity than UNO utilizes, the system ensures efficient energy utilization without any excess to back feed into the grid, thus maximizing sustainability efforts.
“This solar array plays a meaningful role in helping UNO reduce its Scope 2 emissions while enhancing the financial outcome of the overall project and reducing the University’s electricity consumption by 30%,” said David Amoss, VP of Development at Bernhard. “It also provides a lab-like facility for the University to build additional curriculum around, as the quality of UNO’s programs has long been a critical source of our talented workforce in the New Orleans area.”
The benefits of this pioneering project are multifaceted. Not only does the solar system serve as a sustainable green energy source, reducing UNO’s reliance on traditional utility providers, but it also significantly diminishes UNO’s carbon footprint. UNO also stands to benefit financially, with anticipated savings from reduced energy costs and eligibility for a 30% Investment Tax Credit rebate totaling approximately $520,000.
“The completion of the solar array project marks a major milestone in the University’s sustainability efforts,” said UNO President Kathy Johnson. “It will help reduce our carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions starting right now. I am thrilled that our partnership with Bernhard has yielded such an innovative approach to energy usage.”
The solar array’s environmental impact is substantial, with an estimated annual reduction of 1,721 metric tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to removing 319 cars from the road or planting 40,263 trees in one year. This underscores UNO’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The solar array installation is part of a visionary 25-year partnership between Bernhard and UNO aimed at revitalizing the university’s energy infrastructure, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting UNO’s academic and research endeavors. Over the partnership’s lifetime, UNO anticipates generating $2.1 million in annual utility cost savings while addressing nearly $9 million in deferred maintenance.
UNO’s 200-acre lakefront campus will undergo extensive energy infrastructure improvements totaling $27 million within the partnership’s initial 24 months. These enhancements include the solar array installation, renewal of chilled water systems, building asset upgrades, efficiency improvements, and retro-commissioning efforts, all aimed at enhancing sustainability and efficiency.
As UNO continues to evolve its campus infrastructure to meet the challenges of the future, its partnership with Bernhard underscores its dedication to sustainability, academic advancement, and societal impact.
“Bernhard could not be prouder of how this partnership has developed during its first year, which is a testament to the hard work of our Delivery team and UNO’s leadership and Facilities staff,” said Amoss.
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-26-at-10.24.24 AM.png10241824James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-03-27 09:22:332024-03-27 09:22:33University of New Orleans Partners with Bernhard to Launch Innovative Solar Array Installation
“Each day our hospital honors an everlasting promise to our community to provide the absolute best in state-of-the-art health care,” said Charlie Brinkley, Maury Regional Health CAO. “Bernhard’s unmatched history in energy solutions makes them the perfect partner as we upgrade and expand our facility infrastructure to provide advanced, comprehensive care close to home for the families of Southern Middle Tennessee.”
Throughout the length of the partnership, Bernhard will manage Maury’s complete energy portfolio with facilities spanning over 600,000 square feet. Bernhard will implement $17 million of infrastructure improvements, including technology modernization and energy optimization, resulting in 39% guaranteed energy savings for the hospital. Bernhard teams will upgrade and replace energy assets throughout the facility including air handlers, controls, and ventilation to increase reliability, maximize performance, and reduce operating costs.
Bernhard’s EaaS structure provides Maury with seed capital to begin its first major construction project in 20 years to support growing service lines, offer additional services, and expand facilities to meet the changing needs of its community.
As the first EaaS project in the Tennessee healthcare sector, the Maury Regional-Bernhard partnership marks a historical moment. Bernhard joined the Tennessee Hospital Association’s THA Innovative Solutions in 2019 as their chosen Energy-as-a-Service provider for its member hospitals.
“At our core, THA Innovative Solutions is all about relationships,” said Anne Brandner, Senior Vice President at THA. “Being able to connect Maury Regional Medical Center with an invaluable strategic partner like Bernhard and the most sophisticated energy solutions in the market empowers Maury Regional Medical Center to achieve their core mission of delivering clinical excellence and compassionate care.”
Bernhard’s turnkey solutions provide the hospital with the benefits of efficient and reliable energy without the need to directly manage energy production and use. This transfer of operations and maintenance allows Maury to shift focus and resources wholly to its mission-critical healthcare services.
“Bernhard was built on empowering our clients through innovative energy solutions,” said Jimmy Veteto, Vice President of Business Development at Bernhard. “We are proud to partner with Maury Regional Medical Center to provide Energy-as-a-Service solutions that promote its core mission and allow for the acceleration of an expansive renovation plan bettering patient care in Tennessee for years to come.”
https://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Artboard-3@2x2.png15213640James Skrmettahttps://bernhard.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Bernhard_logo-300x131.pngJames Skrmetta2024-03-15 10:42:472024-03-15 10:42:47Bernhard and Maury Regional Medical Center Announce 25-year Partnership Kickstarting $115 Million Expansion Project
