Texas Schools Trust E3 Entegral Solutions for Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Texas schools are modernizing with energy-efficient LED lighting and smart controls, significantly reducing costs and enhancing learning environments.

Luminate Lighting Group

E3 Entegral Solutions is helping Texas schools cut energy costs and modernize outdated infrastructure. With over 350 districts onboard, including Caldwell ISD and Bryan ISD, E3 specializes in LED lighting upgrades and smart control systems to improve energy efficiency. Their design-build model simplifies project management, delivering tailored solutions for classrooms, athletic facilities, and more.

Key Highlights:

  • Cost Savings: Projects like Royal ISD’s LED upgrade save over $2 million in 15 years, plus $154,749 in rebates.
  • Improved Lighting: Upgrades enhance visibility in gyms, classrooms, and sports fields.
  • Simplified Procurement: E3 uses TIPS to streamline contracting and speed up timelines.
  • Energy Compliance: Upgrades meet ASHRAE and IECC energy codes.

E3’s work reduces energy use, lowers utility bills, and supports schools in meeting sustainability goals while creating better learning environments.

Tuscola HS Gymnasium LED Lighting + GFX Wireless Controls | Customer Testimonial + Project Overview

Project Details: Upgrades Across Texas Schools

E3 Entegral Solutions has been transforming lighting systems in Texas schools with a focus on energy efficiency and modern technology. By incorporating LED retrofits, smart control systems, and enhancements to athletic facilities, they’re replacing outdated fixtures with solutions that save energy and improve functionality. These efforts span various school districts, providing a range of improvements tailored to individual needs.

Types of Upgrades Completed

E3’s work goes far beyond swapping out old bulbs. Their projects include LED retrofits in classrooms, hallways, and offices, along with smart controls that adjust lighting based on occupancy and natural daylight. Athletic facilities have also seen upgrades, with improved lighting for fields, courts, and other sports areas.

For instance, at Port Neches-Groves Independent School District, E3 completed a full LED lighting overhaul at the high school and two middle schools - Groves Middle School and Port Neches Middle School. The project extended to athletic facilities, upgrading lighting at football, baseball, and softball fields, as well as tennis courts.

Another example is Rio Hondo High School, where E3 focused on the gymnasium, improving visibility and lowering operational costs with a targeted lighting upgrade.

School District Project Examples

Royal ISD stands out as a prime example of E3’s efficiency. The district joined the program in March 2022, and by March 2023, the lighting transformation was complete. This project involved replacing over 9,000 fixtures, with projected savings of more than $2 million over 15 years. The district also received immediate rebates totaling $154,749.65 and an estimated $116,000 in annual utility savings.

"The LED transformation went exceptionally smoothly, with E3 leading the way. It exceeded my expectations from the planning perspective to actual boots on the ground. TIPS's purchasing process was very easy to navigate, and I look forward to working with them again. Royal ISD has a bright future, thanks to E3 & TIPS!"

  • Derrick Dabney, Director of Operations, Royal ISD

At Port Neches-Groves ISD, the $11.996 million infrastructure upgrade was funded through multiple programs. This included two $3 million applications via the Cool Chillers Program and $6.034 million from the SECO LoanSTAR program.

"I've been in the school district for 15 years…and this project was probably the best run project I've been a part of."

  • Mike Gonzales, Superintendent, Port Neches-Groves ISD

Simplified Procurement Through Contracting Programs

E3 uses TIPS (The Interlocal Purchasing System) to streamline the often-complicated bidding process, allowing projects to move forward without delays. This approach significantly accelerates the timeline for public school upgrades.

For example, during the Royal ISD project, Derrick Dabney collaborated with Jason Walding from E3 and external contractors to complete the transformation. TIPS simplified the procurement process, condensing months of paperwork into a straightforward selection process.

"Utilizing TIPS to procure the job was efficient and seamless and set the tone for a successful project."

  • Vince Zubicek, Business Development Manager, E3 Entegral Solutions

Technology Used: LED Lighting and Smart Controls

E3 upgrades are built around two key technologies: LED lighting and smart controls. Together, they create adaptable lighting systems that adjust automatically based on factors like room usage, available natural light, and occupancy. This approach helps significantly cut down on energy consumption.

LED Lighting Solution Features

At the core of these projects are LED fixtures, known for their energy efficiency and high-quality illumination. Designed to last, they minimize maintenance needs while offering consistent color temperatures and instant-on functionality. When combined with smart controls, these fixtures become part of an all-encompassing energy management system.

Smart Controls for Better Energy Management

Smart controls take energy optimization to the next level by utilizing features like occupancy sensors and daylight harvesting. These systems adjust lighting based on how a space is being used and the amount of natural light available. They also allow for real-time monitoring, scheduled adjustments, and even notify facility managers about maintenance requirements.

Meeting Energy Code Requirements

The combination of LED lighting and smart controls ensures compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 and IECC energy codes. This not only meets current standards but also simplifies future regulatory updates. Additionally, integrated monitoring tools make energy audits and compliance reporting more straightforward.

sbb-itb-86fe545

Results: Energy Savings, ROI, and Rebates

E3 Entegral Solutions' LED upgrades have proven to be a game-changer for schools, cutting energy use and operating costs. These savings open up more funds for essential educational initiatives. Here's a closer look at the measurable energy, financial, and operational benefits these upgrades deliver.

Energy and Cost Reductions

Switching to LED lighting significantly lowers energy consumption and trims down monthly utility bills. On top of that, smart lighting controls take efficiency a step further by adjusting brightness based on occupancy and natural light, which also helps reduce maintenance needs.

Return on Investment and Financial Impact

Thanks to these energy savings, many school districts in Texas are seeing impressive financial returns. Lower energy bills, reduced maintenance costs, and added perks like rebates and tax incentives mean these projects often pay for themselves quickly.

Utility Rebates and Tax Benefits

Utility rebates, combined with federal tax incentives and state-level financing options, help offset initial costs. This makes energy-efficient upgrades not just affordable but a smart financial move for schools looking to maximize their budgets.

Long-Term Benefits and Environmental Impact

Switching to LED systems offers more than just immediate cost savings - it sets the stage for long-term environmental and technological gains. E3 Entegral Solutions' LED upgrades provide Texas schools with ongoing energy efficiency, reduced expenses, and a meaningful step toward sustainability.

Supporting Environmental Goals

LED lighting helps schools reduce their carbon footprint while improving indoor air quality. Unlike older lighting systems, LEDs don’t rely on hazardous materials, making them a safer choice for both people and the planet. Plus, they minimize eye strain, contributing to healthier and more comfortable learning environments - all while aligning with green building initiatives.

Ready for Future Technologies

Modern LED systems are designed with the future in mind. They can integrate with advanced features like daylight sensors and building management systems, and they’re compatible with renewable energy sources. Many also support IoT connectivity, making them a perfect fit for schools aiming to develop smart campus solutions. These upgrades not only meet current needs but also prepare schools for tomorrow's technological advancements.

Conclusion: Moving Forward with E3 Entegral Solutions

E3 Entegral Solutions

E3 Entegral Solutions has already demonstrated its ability to help Texas schools achieve energy-efficient upgrades through its integrated design-build approach. By incorporating LED lighting and smart controls, schools can streamline energy management, meet stringent energy codes, and enjoy tangible benefits like reduced costs and improved efficiency.

These upgrades not only cut down on energy consumption but also lower operational expenses, offering schools a chance to align their budgets with environmentally conscious choices. This dual focus on financial savings and environmental responsibility creates healthier, more sustainable learning environments while supporting broader green initiatives.

With a track record of success in multiple Texas school districts, E3 Entegral Solutions brings a collaborative approach that enhances current energy systems and sets the stage for future advancements. Their partnership offers schools a well-rounded solution for modern lighting systems - delivering immediate energy savings today and preparing facilities for the innovations of tomorrow.

FAQs

How do LED lighting upgrades and smart controls help schools save energy and reduce costs?

LED lighting upgrades can slash energy consumption by as much as 50% when compared to older fluorescent systems. Combine these with smart controls - like dimmers, occupancy sensors, and daylight harvesting systems - and schools can fine-tune lighting to match real-time needs, driving efficiency even higher.

Beyond cutting energy bills, these upgrades also trim maintenance costs and lower carbon emissions, fostering a greener and more budget-friendly environment for schools. Plus, they help meet energy codes and sustainability targets, making them a forward-thinking choice for educational institutions.

What financial benefits can schools expect from E3 Entegral Solutions' energy-efficient upgrades?

Schools that collaborate with E3 Entegral Solutions for energy-efficient upgrades can see impressive cost reductions. By adopting LED lighting and smart controls, schools have reported saving nearly $154,750 annually, while cutting energy use by about 969,000 kWh each year. On top of that, peak energy demand can drop by more than 107 kW, leading to even lower energy bills.

Switching to LED lighting alone can slash energy costs by up to 80%, translating to potential yearly savings of $1,000 to $4,000 per 10,000 square feet of lighting. These upgrades not only pay for themselves in just a few years but also align with sustainability goals and help lower operational expenses.

How does using TIPS make it easier for Texas schools to start energy-efficient projects?

TIPS makes it easier for Texas schools to upgrade to energy-efficient solutions by providing pre-approved contracts. This eliminates the need for time-consuming bidding processes, giving schools quicker access to top-notch equipment and services.

With this streamlined approach, schools can dedicate their efforts to implementing energy-saving solutions that cut down on both energy consumption and operational expenses.

Related Blog Posts