Princeton Public Schools Moving Towards Energy-Efficient Buildings

PRINCETON, NJ – Princeton Public Schools is implementing a series of sustainable initiatives across all school buildings. These include white roofs, heat pumps, energy-efficient HVAC systems and new boilers.

Sustainable Princeton is working with PPS to design and implement these sustainability projects.

The roof work was funded by the 2022 referendum. Meanwhile, PSEG’s Direct Install program will provide approximately 75 percent of the funding for the heating and cooling projects.

Two electric HVAC systems, nine heat pumps, and 12 energy-efficient gas boilers will be installed. The predicted to cost of these items is expected to be $2.14 million, but after rebates, the district will pay only about $545,664, excluding any additional work needed which may not be covered by the grant.

By the end of the summer, five of the six PPS schools will have almost 100 percent white roofing, which reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat than traditional black roofs and reduces the need for air conditioning, officials said.

The district will install heat pumps at the elementary schools as part of the PSEG Direct Install Program. The heat pumps provide heat as well as energy-efficient cooling in the summer. State-of-the-art HVAC systems that consume less energy and optimize indoor air quality are replacing outdated units in school buildings.

At the same time, high-efficiency boilers, which minimize fuel waste, will ensure that heating needs are met in an environmentally responsible manner.

“These changes represent significant cost savings and underscore our dedication to being stewards of the environment,” Acting Superintendent Kathie Foster said.

"We are committed to providing students and staff with healthy buildings and environmentally conscious learning spaces,” she said.

PPS launched a campaign, “Energy-Saving Showdown,” that involves students and staff participating in competitions to reduce energy use.

The efforts were successful and at Littlebrook Elementary, energy consumption was reduced by 10 percent, officials said.

Littlebrook relied on a team of students and staff led by STEAM teacher Martha Friend.

“All of this work, from turning off lights to upgrading equipment and roofs, is vital to lowering the district’s energy footprint,” said Jenny Ludmer, program manager at Sustainable Princeton.

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