FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas board of trustees approved a $22.9 million contract Friday, Nov. 21, to make energy conservation improvements to 56 buildings on the Fayetteville campus. The energy performance agreement with Energy Systems Group, an award-winning energy services provider, guarantees that energy savings over a 13-year period will cover the cost of the building improvements.

Energy Systems Group will make key energy conservation improvements to the buildings over two year period, beginning in early 2009. Improvements will include more efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems, improved water conservation, and installation of a solar-powered heater for the swimming pool in the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building.

“This partnership between Energy Systems Group and the University of Arkansas underlines our commitment to sustainability and green environmental initiatives,” said Chancellor G. David Gearhart. “It is a definite plus that ESG is able to guarantee that these improvements will pay for themselves, and, in the long term, save money for both the university and the Arkansas taxpayer.”