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Read the latest updates from Bernhard.

Bernhard and Maury Regional Medical Center Announce 25-year Partnership Kickstarting $115 Million Expansion Project

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Bernhard and Maury Regional Medical Center have agreed to an innovative 25-year Energy-as-a-Service partnership to act as the catalyst for Maury’s groundbreaking $115-million facility improvement plan to enhance patient care and experience.

“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.”

Maury Regional Medical Center and Bernhard Celebrate Innovative Partnership with Valve Turning

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Maury Regional Medical Center celebrated a significant milestone last week as it hosted a valve-turning celebration on its campus to celebrate its innovative long-term agreement with Bernhard.

The partnership between Bernhard and Maury Regional Medical Center was forged in 2023, with a 25-year Energy-as-a-Service partnership to revolutionize the hospital’s energy solutions. This collaboration acted as the catalyst for Maury’s groundbreaking $115-million facility improvement plan, designed to elevate patient care and overall experience.

Under the 25-year agreement, Bernhard is responsible for managing Maury’s extensive energy portfolio, covering facilities spanning over 600,000 square feet. As part of this commitment, Bernhard is set to implement $17 million in infrastructure improvements, encompassing technology modernization and energy optimization initiatives. These upgrades are projected to result in an impressive 39% guaranteed energy savings for the hospital.

The comprehensive energy portfolio management involves upgrading and replacing key energy assets throughout the facility, including air handlers, controls, and ventilation systems. The aim is to enhance reliability, maximize performance, and reduce operating costs, contributing to a sustainable and cost-effective healthcare environment.

One of the notable aspects of Bernhard’s Energy-as-a-Service structure is its provision of seed capital, empowering Maury to embark on its first major construction project in two decades. This initiative is aligned with Maury’s strategic vision to support growing service lines, offer additional services, and expand facilities to meet the evolving needs of its community.

The Maury-Bernhard partnership holds historical significance as the first Energy-as-a-Service project in the Tennessee healthcare sector. Bernhard joined the Tennessee Hospital Association’s THA Innovative Solutions in 2019 as the chosen Energy-as-a-Service provider for its member hospitals.

Bernhard’s turnkey solutions have proven instrumental in providing Maury Regional Health with the benefits of efficient and reliable energy, all without the need for direct management of energy production and usage. This transfer of operations and maintenance allows Maury to shift its focus and resources entirely to its mission-critical healthcare services, further reinforcing its commitment to excellence in patient care.

Bernhard’s Birmingham Office Announces Move with Open House and Ribbon Cutting

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Bernhard announced its Birmingham office has relocated to the state-of-the-art 3rd floor at 400 Vestavia Parkway in Vestavia Hills, Ala. The move was celebrated as the company hosted an open house event, welcoming clients, industry partners, and guests to explore their new space.

The event saw nearly all members of the Birmingham office, including remote employees, making a point to attend and celebrate this moment. 60 guests, representing a diverse mix of clients and industry partners, also attended the open house. The Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce led the proceedings and conducted a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the strong connection between Bernhard and the local business community.

Upon entering the new office space, guests were warmly greeted by the Birmingham staff stationed at various points throughout the floor allowing for an immersive experience, allowing attendees to engage with the Bernhard team and learn more about the company’s vision and expertise.

With this relocation, open house, and ribbon cutting, Bernhard not only showcased its commitment to innovation but also reinforced its strong ties with the local community and industry partners. The move sets the stage for a new era of collaboration and growth in the heart of Alabama, establishing Bernhard as a key player in the region’s energy services landscape.

Bernhard’s Asset Management Team Successfully Navigates Multiple Extreme Weather Events in 2024

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New Orleans faced unprecedented weather challenges with a hard freeze, causing freezing temperatures that the Gulf South rarely experienced in January 2024. The extreme weather tested the resilience of facilities and residents in the region. The intense temperature also caused a critical water main to break in Jefferson Parish, which sits just outside of New Orleans. The water main rupture devastated the area, rendering water unsafe for more than 250,000 residents and surrounding businesses. Bernhard, renowned for its expertise in comprehensive energy asset management, played a crucial role in responding to the hard freeze and later, the broken water pipe in Jefferson Parish.

These two separate events showcased Bernhard’s versatility in Disaster Response services.

Bernhard’s Asset Management services focus on the operation and management of energy assets. The in-house team of experts collaboratively delivers services such as operations and maintenance, emergency and disaster response, and capital planning.

Bernhard’s approach emphasizes flexibility, scalability, and long-term sustainability in managing energy assets through the lifecycle of projects.

Maintaining Facility Operations in the Freeze

During the hard freeze, Bernhard’s Asset Management team executed a well-defined Freeze Protection Plan. The proactive measures undertaken by the teams at multiple customer locations throughout the region demonstrated a commitment to safeguarding clients and facilities with world-class disaster response:

  1. Pre-Freeze Preparation (72 – 48 hours prior):
    • Teams coordinated staffing levels with facilities leadership.
    • Reviewed the Freeze Protection Plan across all sites.
    • Took inventory of pipe insulation materials and ordered necessary supplies.
  2. Implementation of Freeze Protection Plan (12 – 48 hours prior):
    • Actuated dampers manually and ensured responsiveness.
    • Dripped hose bibs to prevent freezing.
    • Inspected and secured Central Plant roofs.
    • Opened bypass valves on cooling towers and adjusted pre-heat coil settings.
    • Assisted in draining wet-pipe sprinkler systems.
    • Conducted scheduled inspections during freezing conditions.
    • Documented changes in the engineer’s logbook.
  3. Post-Freeze Actions:
    • Performed visual inspection on major equipment.
    • Closed hose-bib valves and released operator overrides.
    • Winterized cooling towers, added protective covers to piping, and raised heating water settings.
    • Conducted constant rounds to maintain water flow and checked pump operations.

During the inclement winter weather and freezing temperatures, no Bernhard assets or units suffered critical harm. The cold weather and freeze event was a national effort by Bernhard’s asset management team across all sites.

When it Rains it Pours

In the wake of a critical water main break in Jefferson Parish, Bernhard’s experts displayed swift and effective coordination:

  1. Water Delivery Coordination:
    • Coordinated with Macro Companies for suitable staging areas for water delivery tanker trucks.
    • Utilized 6,500-gallon water delivery tanker trucks for approximately 12 hours of continuous service.
  2. Immediate Response:
    • Delivered cases of water and ice to all nurses’ stations.
    • Notified personnel and patients of the boil water advisory.
    • Turned off ice machines.
  3. Logistical Support:
    • Delivered 10 potable water trucks within hours.
    • Provided a utility truck with flex pipes and a pump for water distribution.
    • Ensured a readily available service team for water truck hookup.
  4. Efficient Operations:
    • Swapped water trucks within 10 minutes of depletion to maintain a constant water supply.
    • Flushed toilets after every swap to remove air from the water lines.

A Trusted Partner to Navigate Your Facility Through Disasters

Bernhard’s Asset Management team showcased their resilience and adaptability in responding to two unique disaster scenarios for their customers. The proactive measures, adherence to standard operating procedures, and effective collaboration with external partners ensured the protection of clients and facilities. The successful navigation of these events reinforces Bernhard’s commitment to providing long-term solutions, disaster response, and comprehensive asset management services.

Revitalizing the Heart of Little Rock: Bernhard Providing Engineering Services in Central Arkansas Library System Overhaul

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In a ceremonial wall-breaking event, the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) marked the beginning of a transformative journey for its Main Library, a project that will see a comprehensive overhaul of the iconic downtown structure. Bernhard is at the forefront of this project and has shared a 20-year history with the library since its initial conversion from a downtown warehouse. Bernhard, having originally worked on the building, brings a unique understanding and appreciation for the library’s historical significance.

Bernhard’s multifaceted role encompasses mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and structural engineering, reflecting the company’s commitment to a holistic and integrated approach to the renovation. The project aims to modernize the library, fostering increased community involvement and engagement.

The $25-million renovation project, spanning 160,000 square feet and five stories, is a collaborative effort between three local architecture firms – Polk Stanely Wilcox, WER Architects, and Stocks-Mann Architects – who joined forces with Bernhard.

One of the central features of the renovation is the relocation of the children’s library, accompanied by a substantial 72% increase in space dedicated to children’s literature. The move to the first floor allows for seamless integration with an adjacent garden area, creating a vibrant and inviting space for young readers.

Notably, the renovated library will introduce innovative additions such as a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen, a TV production studio, a Makers Lab, and over 100 meeting spaces, emphasizing the library’s evolving role as a community hub. The fifth floor will showcase an underfloor HVAC system, optimizing efficiency and creating a comfortable environment for patrons.

The ground floor is set to welcome Boulevard Bread Company, providing a local eatery for downtown residents and visitors. Unique challenges arose during the engineering process, particularly in the design of the ceiling panels engraved with poems. Lighting, sprinkler placement, and air distribution were meticulously coordinated to enhance the aesthetic while complying with safety codes.

During the wall-breaking event, attendees were shown final renderings that unveiled the library’s future look. The exterior will retain much of its historic charm, with the addition of windows, a glass vestibule stairwell, an extra entrance for the library cafe, and rooftop access.

Exciting details revealed include a dedicated TV studio available for use and a demonstration kitchen on the fifth floor, emphasizing CALS’s commitment to providing diverse resources for the community. As the project progresses, Bernhard and its collaborators are set to breathe new life into the heart of Little Rock, ensuring the Central Arkansas Library System remains a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for generations to come.

Southeast Arkansas College and Bernhard Illuminate a Sustainable Future at “Flip the Switch” Event

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Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK) and Bernhard joined forces in a groundbreaking “Flip the Switch” Event on Thursday, February 7th, 2024, unveiling a cutting-edge Solar Array and energy efficiency upgrades at SEARK’s Welcome Center in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial activation of SEARK’s new solar array, a pivotal component of the institution’s forward-thinking energy plan. Attended by local community members, students, faculty, and media representatives, the event marked a milestone in SEARK’s ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable and resilient campus environment.

“We are genuinely excited to share this moment with SEARK, featuring a new solar array that marks a significant leap towards a greener and more efficient future,” said Corey Wilson, Bernhard’s Vice President of Performance. “Bernhard takes pride in the collaboration with SEARK to implement these comprehensive upgrades, including the integration of LED lighting and advanced building automation systems. This initiative signifies SEARK’s vision of fostering a sustainable environment for both students and the broader community.”

The transformative project, made possible in part by a bond issued in 2022, is a significant leap toward modernizing SEARK’s energy infrastructure. As part of SEARK’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency, the plan is expected to generate millions of dollars in energy savings, operation and maintenance savings, and capital savings over the next two decades.

Key components of the project include upgrading the Chilled Water System, replacing pumps at Founder’s Hall and McGeorge, and enhancing air handling units. These initiatives are projected to result in $2,940,816 in Energy Savings and $427,670 in Operation and Maintenance Savings over a 20-year term.

Further enhancements encompass upgrading heating water systems, improving indoor air quality, and implementing advanced security measures campus-wide. These measures are anticipated to result in $8,971,152 in avoided capital savings over a 20-year term.

“This innovative solar array and the comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades are integral to our commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness,” said SEARK President Dr. Steven Bloomberg. “It not only propels SEARK towards a greener future but also brings our outdated systems up to date for the foreseeable future. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our energy consumption and overall campus sustainability.”

Bernhard Announces CEO Succession Plan with Rob Guthrie Succeeding Ed Tinsley

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Bernhard, one of the largest privately-owned infrastructure firms in America with over 100 years of experience in energy and infrastructure projects, today announced its CEO succession plan. Ed Tinsley, the current CEO, will move into a new role within Bernhard on June 11th, 2024, and will be succeeded by Rob Guthrie, who currently serves as Chief Development Officer.

Ed Tinsley has led Bernhard as CEO since 2018, successfully guiding the company through significant growth and establishing Bernhard as the leading Energy-as-a-Service provider in the United States within core markets such as healthcare and higher education. Beginning June 11th, 2024, Tinsley will assume his new role within Bernhard’s Development Division, where he will focus on mentoring and developing employees and working closer with clients to develop innovative energy solutions for their unique needs.

“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.”

During Tinsley’s 5-year tenure as CEO, Bernhard achieved several key objectives, including creating safe workspaces, becoming the leading Energy-as-a-Service provider in the United States, offsetting its carbon footprint, ensuring fair compensation for employees, fostering diverse and inclusive work environments, uniting Bernhard’s culture, and perfecting an innovative design-build process, and increasing earnings by 310% (a 25% annual growth rate).

Rob Guthrie, currently serving as Bernhard’s Chief Development Officer, brings more than 20 years of industry experience and has played a vital role in Bernhard’s business development efforts. As Chief Development Officer, Guthrie has been a key leader in steering Bernhard towards its long-term vision. With a focus on operational savings and Energy-as-a-Service projects, Guthrie is well-positioned to lead the company into the next chapter of its storied history.

“I am honored to be named the next CEO of Bernhard, and I want to thank my mentor, Ed Tinsley, as well as the Bernhard Board of Directors and our shareholder DIF Capital Partners for placing their faith in me,” Guthrie said. “I have big shoes to fill, but I am excited for the challenge and can’t wait to get started.”

Bernhard’s succession plan aligns with its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The company has a long history of evolving to set the pace in the ever-changing energy services industry. Bernhard, with more than 2,200 employees across more than 20 office locations, has financed over $1.3 billion in Energy-as-a-Service partnerships across various states, solidifying its position as a leader in the energy transition.

“First, I appreciate the hard work and support of every Bernhard employee over the past five years,” Tinsley said.  “The Bernhard team persisted and found a way to overcome each and every challenge we faced. Second, there is no doubt in my mind Rob Guthrie has the vision Bernhard needs to align our business strategy with our corporate strategy.  Rob has been an instrumental leader in helping us achieve our goals and in moving our long-term vision forward. With Rob’s vision, strategy, and guidance, Bernhard can forge a new path and usher in a new era of Energy-as-a-Service solutions.”

Bernhard’s MEPF and Structural Design Services Take Center Stage at UCA’s Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts

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The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) recently unveiled its architectural gem, the Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts. The center offers a seamless integration of state-of-the-art facilities for visual arts, music, and theater under one roof. Bernhard teams provided MEPF and structural design consulting, which played a pivotal role in bringing this innovative project to fruition.

A Hub for Creativity

The Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts stands tall as UCA’s new epicenter for visual arts, housing 2D and 3D studios, student work areas, workshops, instructional spaces, and faculty offices. As the primary home for UCA’s Music Department, it boasts a 450-seat concert hall, rehearsal and ensemble spaces, practice rooms, and teaching studios. The inclusion of a versatile 175-seat black box theater adds a dynamic dimension, enhancing theatrical performance opportunities for students and engaging the campus and community alike.

Strategic MEPF and Structural Planning

Bernhard’s involvement began with strategic pre-design meetings, where teams collaborated with UCA’s facility leadership to strategize how to manage the new building’s innovative requirements. The design process involved intricate work, such as the development of a Glu-Lam “honeycomb” structure and custom concealed metal connections inside the Concert Hall to protect acoustic integrity.

A highlight of Bernhard’s design is the utilization of a 300-ton water-cooled mag-bearing chiller, efficiently serving both the performing arts building and the adjacent 3D arts building. The forward-thinking design includes taps for future connection to the campus district loop, highlighting Bernhard’s commitment to long-term sustainability.

Precision in Sound and Lighting

Collaborating closely with structural teams, acousticians, and architects, Bernhard addressed critical aspects of sound mitigation. The detailed planning ensured that sound levels in instrument practice rooms and the recital hall were maintained at less than an NC of 15. This was achieved by Bernhard engineers through a multi-layered approach, including internally lined ducts, duct silencers, and lagging before and after VAV boxes.

The Concert Hall’s air distribution system is a testament to Bernhard’s commitment to innovation. A self-balancing design, devoid of downstream balancing dampers, ensures optimal noise levels. Air velocity is maintained at less than 400 feet per minute, minimizing unwanted disturbances during performances.

Bringing in theater and A/V consultants enabled Bernhard to design and specify lighting for the concert hall stage that meets the specific needs of musicians. The emphasis was on achieving proper lighting levels and angles, ensuring that the focus remains on the performers while creating a visually stunning experience.

Illuminating Artistry

Bernhard’s electrical team extended its expertise to the art studios and gallery, designing lighting solutions similar to art gallery standards. The use of aimable light fixtures with adjustable apertures and high-end +97 Color Rendering Index (CRI) LED’s ensures that works of art maintain their original color integrity when displayed in professional settings—a remarkable feat given the typical building lighting standards.

Bernhard’s comprehensive MEPF and structural design services have played a pivotal role in transforming UCA’s Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts into a beacon of creativity and innovation. The meticulous attention to detail, commitment to sustainability, and collaboration with various stakeholders have collectively elevated this project into a showcase of excellence in architectural engineering. The Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts not only unites the arts but also stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and excellence in engineering.

Bernhard Duo Honored in BCxA 20 Under 40 Program

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In a testament to the commitment and expertise of its workforce, Bernhard is proud to announce that Preston Caple, Commissioning Agent, and Alex Schimmer, Commissioning Technician, have been named to the Building Commissioning Association’s (BCxA) annual 20 Under 40 Program. This program identifies and applauds 20 professionals under the age of 40 from across the United States who have demonstrated excellence in the field of building commissioning.

The BCxA 20 Under 40 list is a celebration of young professionals who not only adhere to best practices but also exhibit leadership qualities, innovation, and a dedicated pursuit of making commissioning business as usual. All nominees for this accolade were put forward by colleagues and rigorously evaluated by the BCxA Awards Committee.

“We are immensely proud to have two of our talented professionals named to the BCxA 20 Under 40 Program,” says Tim Staley, President of IS Delivery at Bernhard. “Preston and Alex exemplify the high standards we uphold at Bernhard, and their inclusion in this esteemed list is a reflection of their dedication to excellence in the field of building commissioning.”

The BCxA 20 Under 40 Program highlights the importance of fostering young talent in the building commissioning profession and recognizes the significant contributions of individuals who are shaping the future of the industry. Bernhard is honored to have its employees not only meet but exceed the rigorous criteria set by the BCxA, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

“As the industry continues to evolve, our young professionals stand as shining examples of the next generation of leaders in building commissioning, and their achievements underscore Bernhard’s position as a leader in the field,” said Staley. “Preston and Alex have not only showcased exceptional hands-on commissioning skills but have also been advocates for the industry’s best practices. Their commitment to understanding and implementing commissioning protocols, along with their adept use of associated tools, technologies, and communication strategies, sets them apart as leaders in their field.”

Bernhard’s Commitment to ESG Celebrated with 2023 P3 Awards Nomination

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Bernhard announced today that its Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts have garnered a nomination as a finalist for ESG of the Year at the 2023 P3 Awards. The recognition spotlights the company’s commitment to ESG and its mission to advocate for the betterment of humanity and the environment, strengthen local communities, and amplify all voices and perspectives to create a culture of belonging and inclusion.

Founded in 2018, the annual P3 Awards recognize projects, companies, and individuals worldwide that “push the envelope and deliver innovative solutions to difficult problems.” Winners will be announced at the P3 Awards ceremony held at the Edison Ballroom in New York City on Thursday, October 26, 2023.

“At Bernhard, we are in the business of serving others,” said Alyssa Jaksich, Chief of Staff and Head of ESG at Bernhard. “With dedicated commitment, we have made significant strides towards reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, furthering our internal diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, and promoting a healthier and more inclusive work environment for our employees.”

Throughout 2022, Bernhard made remarkable progress in incorporating ESG initiatives within its daily operations and workplace culture. Within the last year, the company has:

“I am infinitely proud of the work we accomplished during 2022 in advancing our ESG initiatives forward and achieving notable progress along our journey to become a leader in the energy transition,” said Jaksich. “While celebrating our achievements, we recognize that our ESG journey is ongoing. As we embrace the challenges ahead, we are eager to maintain transparency and drive continuous improvements, ensuring our dedication to a better Bernhard and a more sustainable future remains unwavering.”

Bernhard is now a four-time finalist at the P3 Awards. In 2021, an EaaS partnership between Bernhard and East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, Ala., was a finalist for the P3 Awards’ Best Social Infrastructure Project of the Year, and in 2022, a 30-year Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) partnership with Tulane University was named a finalist in both the “Best Education and Higher Education Project” and “Best Energy Project” categories.

For more information about the P3 Awards, visit p3awards.com