www.DaytonaState.edu

On Nov. 20, Daytona State College celebrated completion of a new 2.5-million-gallon thermal energy storage tank constructed on the main campus, with a ribbon-cutting that marks what is expected to be years of energy savings for the institution.

Representatives from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) joined college officials and members of the District Board of Trustees for the event on the Wetherell Center’s fourth-floor outdoor terrace, with the 80-foot-tall storage tank as a backdrop to the west.

“This is a great example of partnering to a good end. Florida Power & Light shared the opportunity with us, including rebates of over $1 million,” said college COO/Provost Tom LoBasso, pointing to energy-efficiency rebates DSC received from FPL upon completion of the $3 million project.

Board of Trustees Chair Lloyd Freckleton noted that the thermal energy storage tank is a functional, economical, environmentally-sound enhancement for the college. “It showcases the college’s smart choices – from fiscal savings to useful partnerships,” he said. “We welcome further wise investments in our infrastructure, as well as partnering for academic and workforce training programs.”

John Haney, FPL’s director of customer service, noted that such partnerships help keep rates low for all FPL customers. “I commend the board for making such a forward thinking and energy efficient solution for the college,” he said.

The tank allows Daytona State to take advantage of special low-demand (off-peak) rates offered by FPL. This is achieved by chilling water for the college’s cooling systems at night and storing it in the insulated storage tank, with 10-inch walls of reinforced concrete, at 42 degrees for use during times of peak demand, a process known as load shifting.

The tank is projected to provide the college with more than $200,000 annually in energy savings. Construction was completed in August by CROM Corp. of Gainesville, Fla.