With Support from NYSERDA, Canajoharie Central School District Earns Best-in-Class in Energy Management

An Upstate New York school district received funding for an energy manager with a “whole-school approach.” Working as a team, the district increased efficiency and awareness, created a pathway to net-zero heating and cooling, and received federal accolades in the process. In 2022, the Canajoharie Central School District (CCSD) superintendent applied for funding to hire an on-site energy manager (OsEM) through NYSERDA’s Clean Green Schools Initiative. In early 2023, CCSD’s application was approved and they brought on Francis D’Ambrosio. Fran worked with district administration to create an energy team, an energy management plan, and to help make the necessary changes and upgrades.

In a short amount of time, the CCSD has made significant strides reducing the district’s energy consumption. With the support of the Superintendent and Board of Education (a crucial aspect), the school has a comprehensive energy management plan. Each building has been through an energy analysis, including a review of windows and insulation. Energy use is tracked and reported monthly, quarterly, and yearly, highlighting areas for improvement.

The district’s Energy Team plans to further reduce reliance on fossil fuels (natural gas, diesel, gasoline) with solar, heat pumps, battery storage, and with an electrification plan for its school buses. Looking ahead, the energy manager is focused on Phase 2 actions such as reducing or eliminating natural gas and replacing it with electricity across the district and will continue to apply for grants to help the district decarbonize their buildings

The CCSD proves that a dedicated energy manager and a shift to all-school engagement can benefit everyone.