New LED lighting, along with building envelope and controls upgrades & optimization will allow the university to manage and track usage and delivery of utility services at a granular level, creating exciting opportunities for campus research projects as well as direct energy and decarbonization benefits. This 3-year program has an Energy Use Intensity reduction target of 17.5%.
Collaboration and coordination with EMU is woven into our annual 5-year capital planning process, with construction work phased around the academic calendar and seasonal constraints. Our plans are synchronized with EMU’s capital planning for the entire campus, not just for utility projects. We ensure constant communication with the University and align with their goals for campus growth.
CenTrio is actively working with EMU to develop and implement a robust sustainability and academic collaboration program. We are supporting the campus with a full-time Sustainability Manager, located in Ypsilanti, who is dedicated to advancing sustainability education and optimizing campus resources.
Meaghan serves as a liaison between the utility modernization efforts by CenTrio and student and faculty-lead groups that focus on sustainability issues at Eastern Michigan University (EMU). She is focused on identifying and pursuing opportunities to support students’ and faculty’s sustainability initiatives that align with EMU’s policies and priorities. Some accomplishments of hers are being instrumental in helping EMU renew their STARS Report in 2026 (earning a Silver Rating), starting a Green Internship Program, and enhancing student engagement within Sustainability on campus.
“Our partnership with CenTrio allows us to modernize our energy infrastructure, reduce deferred maintenance, improve the efficiency & reliability of our systems, & provides a platform for experiential learning while also providing upfront cash infusion to fund strategic initiatives on campus.”
Our Sustainability & Impact Annual Report tracks progress while our Sustainable Infrastructure Plan maps out a comprehensive decarbonization roadmap to guide our activities.
We recognize the power of community connection. We build positive relationships through economic organization alliances, local event sponsorship and service, and educational workshops.
We operate the largest ice battery system in North America, maintaining comfortable building temperatures year-round and reducing electricity costs for thousands of end-users.
We displace fossil fuels by harvesting heat energy from wastewater. Our ambient loop captures thermal sewer flows, transforming the NWC into a bold, low-impact sustainable landmark.
