News Release

November 16, 2007

Riley County receives Governor's Energy Award

Riley County received the Governor's Energy Recognition Award in Energy Efficiency for its new Public Works Complex at the Kansas Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Conference held in Topeka.

The Public Works Complex has many energy efficiency features. Natural lighting coupled with T-5 and T-8 light fixtures were used throughout buildings in the complex, thereby reducing energy costs for lighting by up to 75 percent in comparison to conventional lighting.

By utilizing a geothermal system, no natural gas or electricity is needed to heat or cool air throughout many of the buildings. Energy costs are approximately 60 percent less then a conventional HVAC system. Further costs reductions are realized utilizing a central control system.

A radiant gas heating system was installed overhead in the main shop. Radiant gas heat is considered to be the most energy efficient heating system for large open facilities.

An in-floor heating system also was installed in the main shop and vehicle wash bay area. This system utilizes piping in the concrete floor to store and emit heat, providing constant heat and quick heat recovery. A glycol and water solution is circulated through the piping to transfer heat.

The ventilation system in the main shop consists of three exhaust fans with a heat recovery system. The recovery system improves energy efficiency by providing heated makeup air when fans are engaged to reduce loads on other heating systems.

Several features allow the conservation of water.

The county plans to incorporate solar and wind generation in the future, plus solar hot water.