2005

FOR RELEASE: February 10, 2005
CONTACT: Peter Sigurdson (NYSERDA): 716-842-1522 ext. 3006   
                 Laura Whitford (YMCA): 585-373-2400 ext. 22

Olean Family YMCA Receives NYSERDA Incentives for Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Olean, NY -- The Olean Family YMCA has partnered with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to implement a series of energy-efficient upgrades at its newly remodeled facility.  The measures are projected to save the YMCA more than $2,000 in annual energy costs.

"NYSERDA was delighted to have partnered with the Olean Family YMCA in helping to create an energy-efficient recreational facility that will save utility costs and increase comfort for its patrons," said NYSERDA President Peter R. Smith.  "As independent administrator of New York's System Benefits Charge (SBC), NYSERDA implements energy conservation programs throughout the State that benefit commercial, institutional and residential customers." 

"The YMCA is very grateful for the NYSERDA partnership," said YMCA Executive Director Barbara Sweitzer.  "The cost savings were critical in leveraging the project financing, and our members appreciate the climate control-features."

Through its New York Energy $mart^SM New Construction program, NYSERDA provided $33,055 toward energy-efficient measures implemented at the YMCA's new 65,000-square-foot facility.  Facility features include an aquatic center with an Olympic-size pool along with family fun and therapy pools, a wellness center, gymnasium, climbing wall, and locker rooms.

The energy-efficient measures incorporated into the project include high-efficiency lighting and motors, room occupancy sensors, a high-efficiency HVAC unit with a heat- recovery wheel, dehumidification unit for the swimming pool, and CO₂ ventilation controls.  It is estimated that the total energy savings for this project will be $2,112 annually.

Funding for the New Construction Program and other NYSERDA incentives are provided through the New York Energy $mart^SM program, which lowers electricity costs by encouraging energy efficiency as the State's electric utilities move to competition. The programs are available to all electric distribution customers (residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial) of Central Hudson, Con Edison, NYSEG, Niagara Mohawk, Orange and Rockland, and Rochester Gas and Electric.

New York Energy $mart^SM programs are funded by a System Benefits Charge (SBC) paid by electric distribution customers of participating utilities. NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation established by law in 1975, administers SBC funds and programs under an agreement with the Public Service Commission.

Additional information about these and other energy-saving programs is available online at www.nyserda.org or www.getenergysmart.org, or toll-free at 1-866-NYSERDA.  

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