For the University of North Dakota (UND), providing a comfortable environment for students and staff during even the coldest winters is crucial. And, after 65 years, the university’s coal-powered steam plant was no longer up to the task, requiring specially-made new parts to remain functional. Even still, it suffered breakdowns that increased in frequency within the past few years. Because of this, UND was ready to innovate and invest in clean energy solutions.
Through a partnership with Johnson Controls, UND has unveiled a new central utility plant designed to improve the student experience. This project was enabled through a 40-year-old public-private partnership, or P3, that UND established to improve operations.