Original Date: 11/17/1997
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Prior to 1996, Elizabethtown College used an energy management system which featured early-1980 technology, energy management controls, and direct digital control in a few of the buildings. However, the outdated system lacked flexibility, was difficult to maintain, and could not provide the level of control required by the College. Repairs and replacement parts were also becoming expensive due to the system’s age. A new system was required which could provide the flexibility to grow and expand with the constantly changing needs of the College. In 1996, Elizabethtown College installed the state-of-the-art Landis & Staefa System 600 Energy Management System (EMS).

Elizabethtown College chose the automated and centralized EMS as part of the Performance Contract for energy management. This campus-wide management system provides comprehensive energy management; automatic temperature control strategies; facility management reports; and improved response times to facility problems. The system is PC-based and runs in a Windows environment. Sensory and control system inputs are received by EMS from all over the campus. Energy use is monitored through individual meters in every building. Additional sensors monitor switches, pumps, water usage, valves, fans, building temperatures, and other key points throughout the campus. Most heating/cooling and critical EMSs can be controlled centrally from Elizabethtown College’s Department of Plant Operations.

The new EMS was funded as part of the $1.8 million Performance Contract with Landis & Staefa which guarantees an annual savings of $247,000. By utilizing this state-of-the-art technology, Elizabethtown College reduced energy costs substantially; decreased response times; increased comfort levels and customer satisfaction; and improved facility management reporting.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.