Environmental Renovations Underway at Sterling College
The two largest residence halls at Sterling College, Hamilton and Jefferson, are undergoing extensive renovations this summer, and the crew from Spates Construction is hard at work to make sure the buildings will be ready for the arrival of new students in early September.
The basic structure of the 45-year-old buildings is solid, but energy inefficiency and moisture issues had become a glaring problem over the years. The renovated halls will feature new insulation, tighter windows and doorways, and more comfortable bathrooms. Tightening up the buildings reduces Sterling’s carbon footprint, and will improve the quality of student life.
Two new AllSun Tracker photovoltaic systems, installed by AllEarth Renewables of Williston, produce nearly enough electricity to power both buildings, further reducing the carbon footprint of the College. The Trackers are located next to Hamilton and Jefferson at the edge of a large vegetable garden. Spinach, a shade loving crop, grows in the shadow of the Trackers, and is tended by students in Sterling’s sustainable agriculture program.
Despite the challenges of the recession, Sterling has managed to invest almost $1 million in infrastructure and environmental improvements over the past four years. Funding for the Hamilton / Jefferson project was generously provided by private foundations such as the Gladys Brooks Foundation and the Canaday Family Charitable Trust, along with matching funds from the Department of Energy.
Renovating old buildings and improving their energy efficiency is a cost-effective strategy for Sterling, and also fits well with the College’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Building new, even in accordance with the strictest environmental certifications, often has more of an impact than renovating existing structures.
