Ameresco Replacing District Energy System at Northeastern University in Boston

Northeastern University of Boston has contracted Ameresco to modernize the campus steam distribution system as part of ongoing decarbonization work for the school.

Ameresco will replace the Northeastern campus’s aging district energy system, implementing a high-pressure steam distribution system to replace the older, less efficient low-pressure system. The upgrade will provide Northeastern University with options to not only reduce its carbon footprint but also improve the overall efficiency of its campus energy systems.

While the project’s first phase at Opera Place is completed and operational, the second phase at Huntington Crossing is expected to be accomplished by August 2025.

“We’re excited to continue our strong partnership with Northeastern University,” said Peter Christakis, Executive Vice President at Ameresco, in a statement. “By modernizing the steam distribution system, Northeastern University is positioned to significantly reduce its carbon footprint while improving the overall efficiency of its campus energy systems that will benefit generations to come.”

Earlier this year, Ameresco completed work on a solar installation atop Northeastern’s Snell Library on the Boston campus. The on-grid, rooftop solar totals about 157 kW capacity.

Northeastern’s long-term climate goals include education and on-campus decarbonization projects. So far, the work has achieved close to a 20% reduction in energy use per square foot as well as a 39% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2005, according to the university.

Ameresco also is working with the campus on energy efficiency and water consumption reduction.

The largest university in Massachusetts by enrollment with some 38,000 students, Northeastern ranks consistently in the top 100 for academic standing nationwide by U.S. News and World Report, Forbes and other publications.