Phase II: Winter and Summer 2025 - Infrastructure Modernization

Installation of new winter chiller, replacement of secondary equipment in the chiller plant and upgrade of the control system

Expected disruption: Minimal disruption is expected.
Anticipated efficiencies: The new winter chiller will allow for the production of chilled water during all months of the year. The upgrade will result in improved reliability and comfort inside facilities, fewer disruptions, improved reliability, and increased capabilities for the University, including control systems for better control and monitoring of the chilled water system.

Expected disruption: This project will affect the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts, The Station and the Garrett-Strong Science Building. Additionally, exterior tunnel construction is anticipated.
Anticipated efficiencies: The new equipment is expected to produce and distribute hot water more efficiently than the centralized steam plant and will give Northwest the ability to reduce or turn off hot water systems during cooling seasons.

Expected disruption: Colden Hall will be without electrical power for three to four weeks; multiple buildings are expected to be without electrical power for about one week.
Anticipated efficiencies: Northwest is installing building-level electrical metering and other upgrades to reduce disruptions and improve the reliability of electrical distribution throughout the campus. The upgrades will improve Facility Services’ ability to locate, troubleshoot, improve and monitor inefficiencies inside buildings.

Expected disruption: Upgrades will impact the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts, the Olive DeLuce Fine Arts Building and Lamkin Activity Center; other buildings that may be affected are the Administration Building, B.D. Owens Library, Everett W. Brown Education Hall and the J.W. Jones Student Union. These disruptions are planned for the summer months to limit student impact; air conditioning will not be available in the affected buildings.
Anticipated efficiencies: The new equipment will improve reliability, reduce disruptions and improve comfort inside buildings. Monitoring systems will help Northwest predict and repair issues before they arise and cause disruptions. The new HVAC equipment is designed with modern energy codes, resulting in more efficient heating and cooling inside buildings.