Faced with a host of unreliable systems and inefficient buildings, La Grande School District in Eastern Oregon was struggling to maintain comfort and energy bills. With help from Energy Trust of Oregon, they made upgrades that are saving money and energy, while creating a more comfortable learning environment for all.

Serving nearly 2,400 K–12 students, La Grande School District’s facilities include three elementary schools, a middle school and a high school. From a facilities standpoint, the school district’s primary goal is system reliability. “Major breakdowns cost time and effort to fix, plus cause a loss of energy,” said Joseph Waite, operations manager.

Between 2017 and 2019, the district installed a variety of equipment upgrades, including a gas-fired condensing boiler, building controls, a tankless water heater, pipe insulation and steam traps. Additionally, one of the oldest buildings received new ventilators to help classrooms maintain optimum temperatures.

The district is saving 12,000 kWh and 12,000 therms annually, which amounts to $9,800 in annual energy cost savings. A+ results in anyone’s book.

“Our entire community uses our buildings for a whole range of activities,” said Waite. “Energy Trust helped us accomplish more with the limited funds we had available. And that benefits everyone.”