Eastern Michigan University

50-year Concession Agreement to Invest in, Improve, and Modernize EMU’s utility infrastructure.

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Outcomes

Key Figures From Our Partnership

centrio 50 Year

Utility Concession Agreement

centrio $115M

Energy Utility System Monetization

centrio 40%

Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target

Services

Comprehensive Energy Management

50-year concession agreement for the exclusive rights for the O&M, modernization of, & investment into the University’s energy utility system including development of a robust sustainability program.

Initial $26M Energy Conservation Measures Program

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%.

interior of university campus building with students and modern facilities supported by district energy systems

Collaborative Approach for Capital Planning

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.

university campus outdoor walkway with students and buildings supported by district energy systems

Sustainability & Academic Partnership

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.

university campus facility with modern buildings and infrastructure supported by district energy systems
Customers

Hear From Our Partners

“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.”

Mike Valdes

CFO at Eastern Michigan University

modern university campus buildings with green spaces supported by district energy infrastructure
WHY CENTRIO

The CenTrio Way: Unsurpassed Excellence

Our culture of excellence is woven into the integrity of our partnerships, quality of work, advanced technologies, community loyalty, sustainability focus, & continuous innovation.

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Sustainability: Bold Action, Gentle Impact

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Sustainability: Bold Action, Gentle Impact

Our Sustainability & Impact Annual Report tracks progress while our Sustainable Infrastructure Plan maps out a comprehensive decarbonization roadmap to guide our activities.

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Community Engagement

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Community Engagement

We recognize the power of community connection. We build positive relationships through economic organization alliances, local event sponsorship and service, and educational workshops.

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Thermal Energy Storage: Ice Battery Advantage

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Thermal Energy Storage: Ice Battery Advantage

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.

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Operator of One of America’s Largest Sewer Heat Recovery Systems

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Operator of One of America’s Largest Sewer Heat Recovery Systems

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.