NIU Advances Sustainability with $56M Energy-Saving Collaboration with Trane®

Northern Illinois University (NIU) is taking a major step toward sustainability by partnering with Trane® – a brand of Trane Technologies to implement a $56 million energy-saving and carbon-reduction program across its campus.

The initiative, approved by the NIU Board of Trustees in October, will be financed through certificates of participation (COPs), ensuring no increase in the university’s deficit. With financing successfully secured, NIU is finalizing the contract to commence the program.

Comprehensive Upgrades Planned
The project leverages Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC), a funding model that uses anticipated energy and operational savings to finance improvements. Campus-wide upgrades will include:

• LED lighting installation.
• Water conservation measures.
• Building weatherization improvements.
• Solar photovoltaic installations generating 3.2 MW of power.
• EV charging stations.
• Thermal ice storage systems for cooling.
• High-efficiency heating, cooling, and HVAC controls upgrades.

“This collaboration allows us to fund critical facility improvements using energy savings, avoiding the use of existing capital budgets,” said John Heckmann, NIU’s Associate Vice President of Facilities Management and Campus Services.

Significant Environmental Impact
The upgrades will reduce NIU’s energy consumption by over 26% and carbon emissions by 11%, equivalent to removing 6,552 cars from the road annually or planting 455,169 trees, based on Environmental Protection Agency data. These efforts align with NIU’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan, which aims to reduce total carbon emissions by 50% by 2030.

“We are thrilled to work with Trane on this bold initiative, which reflects our deep commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said NIU President Lisa C. Freeman.

Innovative Facilities and Community Engagement
The program will transform about 50 campus buildings through energy, water, and lighting-efficiency upgrades, while enhancing building automation for temperature regulation. Solar panels will be installed on rooftops, parking areas, and open grounds, with EV charging stations under solar carports. Additionally, thermal ice storage tanks will be added near key facilities to optimize cooling systems.

“This is a critical step in reducing NIU’s carbon footprint and creating sustainable, energy-efficient spaces,” said Courtney Gallaher, NIU Director of Campus Sustainability. The initiative also aims to serve as a “living laboratory” for student research, internships, and community outreach.

Broader Social Impact
Beyond campus improvements, the program prioritizes green workforce development through student capstone projects, internships, and job opportunities. It also promotes community engagement in sustainability and STEM education, offering pathways into energy-related careers.

“NIU’s dedication to sustainability and the well-being of students and staff is evident in this ambitious program,” said Jon Dunlap, Upper Midwest Area Director of Energy Services for Trane. “These upgrades will create more resilient and sustainable learning environments.”

With work set to continue over the next two years, NIU is charting a course to lead in sustainability, creating long-term benefits for the campus and the community.