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This Earth Day, the Â鶹ֱ²¥ community is eagerly anticipating the latest in a series of bold energy efficiency moves, as the project to install a combined heat and power plant nears completion.

Â鶹ֱ²¥ has long been a leader in . Over a decade ago, it was the first university in the region to install a geothermal cooling and heating system, and in the years since they have continued as careful environmental caretakers using pesticide-free ground care techniques, installing 180 solar panels on the rooftop of Swirbul Library, and implementing recycling practices that go beyond collecting bottles and cans.

The work with is a prime example of the University’s on-going commitment to environmentally friendly practices. Instead of simply replacing four aging boilers, Adelphi’s Facilities Department invested $13.5 million to upgrade the boilers with more efficient models and install a 1.99 MW combined heat and power plant (CHP) that will allow them to provide a reliable place of refuge in the event storm-related outages. The combined measures will lead to a dramatic and immediate reduction in the University’s greenhouse gas emissions—by as much as 4,600 metric tons each year—as well as generating $1.6 million in annual energy savings.

Installed this winter, the CHP is on target to be switched on this May 2.

Combined with Adelphi’s other initiatives, including 100% green power and campus-wide engagement with environmentally friendly practices, the CHP installation strengthens the University’s position at the forefront of energy conservation and recycling.