The Tippecanoe School Corporation has earned a $217,000 rebate from Duke Energy, thanks to energy-efficient upgrades throughout the district. The rebate, awarded through Duke’s Smart $aver® program, recognizes organizations that invest in energy-saving equipment to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

As part of the program, the TSC upgraded lighting, lighting controls and HVAC systems in recent building expansion and renovation projects. These improvements are expected to save about 700,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy a year. According to Duke, that energy savings translates to approximately 558 tons of carbon dioxide reduction from our air, or the equivalent of removing 133 passenger cars from the road each year.

“Our collaboration with Duke Energy has been invaluable as we work toward sustainable, energy-efficient school designs,” said Dr. Scott Hanback, TSC Superintendent. “We’re grateful for their support, which helps reduce our operating costs and sets a strong example for students on the importance of environmental responsibility.”

“Programs like this not only help our customers manage their costs, but they also help us reduce the demand for energy on our system and the need for new power generation,” said Dagny Zupin, government and community relations manager for Duke Energy. “Through Smart $aver, in particular, we have helped participating Indiana businesses save more than $36 million in the last four years.”

Duke Energy presented the rebate check to the school board at its November 13 meeting.