Former school gets new life as an energy-efficient shopping center » Yale Climate Connections

Colorado Elementary School Retrofitted for Sustainable Development

Introduction

In Colorado Springs, Colorado, an old, closed elementary school has been retrofitted with a new heating system and efficient LED lighting. The school, now called Lincoln Center, has been transformed into a hub for various businesses such as a bakery, brewery, barber, and coffee shop.

The Role of C-PACE Program

Tracy Phillips, a representative of the Colorado Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program, explains that C-PACE provided financial assistance for the property’s retrofits. C-PACE programs, available in approximately 30 states, offer loans to cover the upfront costs of energy retrofits and improvements in commercial buildings, including retail spaces, apartment complexes, hospitals, and factories.

Overcoming Financial Barriers

Investing in energy efficiency can lead to long-term cost savings on energy bills for building owners. However, the initial expenses can be a major obstacle. Phillips highlights that many building owners lack the necessary funds for such projects and operate on narrow profit margins, making it difficult for them to afford energy retrofits.

Importance of C-PACE and Incentives

Phillips emphasizes the significance of programs like C-PACE, along with tax incentives and rebates, in facilitating energy consumption reduction projects and revitalizing old buildings.

Conclusion

The retrofitting of the Colorado Springs elementary school demonstrates the potential for sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By repurposing existing infrastructure and implementing energy-efficient solutions, communities can contribute to a more sustainable future.

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References

1. Lincoln Center
2. Colorado Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
3. C-PACE programs

Authors

• Sarah Kennedy
• Shannon Young
• ChavoBart Digital Media

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

Explanation:

The article discusses the retrofitting of an old elementary school in Colorado Springs with a new heating system and efficient LED lighting. This retrofitting project aligns with SDG 7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy. The project aims to improve energy efficiency in the building, which can help reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable energy practices.

The article also mentions the C-PACE program, which provides loans for energy retrofits and improvements in commercial buildings. This program connects to SDG 9, which emphasizes sustainable infrastructure and innovation. By financing retrofit projects, the C-PACE program supports the upgrade of infrastructure to make it more sustainable.

Furthermore, the article highlights the reuse of the old school building as a space for various businesses. This aspect relates to SDG 11, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities. The reuse of existing buildings helps reduce urban sprawl and promotes the efficient use of resources.

Lastly, the article mentions that investing in energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption can contribute to climate action. This connection aligns with SDG 13, which aims to combat climate change and its impacts.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 7.3: Double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency
• Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable
• Target 11.4: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage
• Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning

Explanation:

The retrofitting of the old elementary school with a new heating system and efficient LED lighting aligns with Target 7.3 of SDG 7. By improving energy efficiency in buildings, the project contributes to the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.

The C-PACE program, which provides loans for energy retrofits and improvements, supports Target 9.4 of SDG 9. By financing retrofit projects, the program helps upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them more sustainable.

The reuse of the old school building as a space for businesses relates to Target 11.4 of SDG 11. By repurposing existing buildings, efforts are made to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.

The focus on reducing energy consumption and promoting energy efficiency contributes to Target 13.2 of SDG 13. By integrating climate change measures into policies and planning, the project aligns with the goal of addressing climate change.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No, the article does not mention or imply any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.

Fuente: yaleclimateconnections.org

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