Ameresco Leading $15M in DERs, CHP Upgrades at Reed College

April 11, 2025
Reed College of Portland is contracting Ameresco to overhaul the school’s energy system. One $11 million part of the project includes a complete mechanical, electrical and seismic upgrade of the campus boiler plant, as well as a $1.8 million lighting upgrade.

An Oregon college known for its number of Rhode Scholars is taking the high road to decarbonization on campus.

Reed College of Portland is contracting Ameresco to overhaul the school’s energy system. The $11 million project includes a complete mechanical, electrical and seismic upgrade of the campus boiler plant, as well as a $1.8 million lighting upgrade.

“The central plant upgrade will not only deliver additional cost savings but also enhance energy efficiency and infrastructure, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainable campus energy management," said Steve Yeadon, Executive Director of Facilities Operations at Reed College. "These improvements reflect our dedication to creating a more sustainable and efficient campus environment and reduce our impact on greenhouse gases.”

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This critical project is in addition to an existing $2.3 million contract for the design and procurement of infrastructure for the upgrade. In addition to the lighting work, the combined efforts bring the total value of work in progress with Reed College to over $15 million, showcasing Ameresco's commitment to enhancing the campus infrastructure and sustainability.

Found in 1908, Reed College is a private liberal arts school known for more than 200 alumni having achieved elevated academic honors in Fulbright, Watson and Rhodes scholarships.

Massachusetts-based Ameresco has developed microgrid, distributed energy and energy efficiency projects at multiple university and secondary campuses across the U.S., including Northeastern University in Boston, St. John’s College-Santa Fe, Tri-County Career Center in Ohio and Warren Woods Public Schools in Michigan, among others.