The project: IMEG provided energy and concept design services for four Clean Energy Master Plans (CEMPs) for the Potsdam, Plattsburgh, Canton, and Polytechnic (Utica) campuses.

The goal(s): The primary goal of each CEMP was to develop implementation scenarios for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Project approach: Each CEMP gathered and analyzed existing energy use data, including energy used by each building and the whole campus; how the energy is used; corresponding GHG emissions; and energy performance compared to other university and building benchmarks. Energy audits were then conducted to better understand existing building energy use and develop recommendations for performance improvements. Finally, each report provided recommendations and paths for achieving Climate Act goals. The financial capital investment that will be required for the building and campus infrastructure improvements also was quantified. SUNY also will be able to leverage today’s incentives, grants, and tax credits for investments in energy savings or renewable energy technology, which will increase their return on investment.

Complexities: Technology solutions in various combinations were recommended for each building—all with the future goal of complete electrification. These solutions included fourth- and fifth-generation (4G and 5G) district geothermal systems or electric boilers—each option paired with a variety of other energy efficiency measures (EEMs) most appropriate for each building.

(Expected) outcome: Each CEMP outlines applications of technologies to achieve energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions and the phase-out of fossil fuel use through electrification. Various implementation scenarios were developed for each campus, with phased steps to be taken at both the building and the campus levels from now through 2050. While each master plan was individualized, all four energy planning documents were developed following energy analysis and reduction recommendation best practices. These CEMPs will guide the owner as they take proactive steps to help the SUNY system achieve its carbon neutrality goals and comply with New York State’s Climate Act.