IPF partnership with Consumers Energy powers big savings for MSU

In early 2020, IPF will complete a project to install close to 50,000 new LED tubes in existing fluorescent-light fixtures in nine buildings across campus. These new lights have the potential to save MSU millions in energy and maintenance costs over the course of their 11+ year lifespan. 

Thanks to a close partnership with Consumers Energy, which provided generous incentives, IPF purchased the LED tubes at a significant discount. 

These LED tubes not only use less electricity and provide a higher-quality light than existing fluorescent tubes, they also greatly reduce maintenance costs.  

“Existing fluorescent tubes rely on small transformers (ballasts) to power them,” said Monte Pride, an IPF capital project delivery manager. “These ballasts require replacement every 7-10 years, which is costly in both parts and labor.” He added, “because LED tubes do not require a ballast, they can be retrofitted in existing fixtures with minimal effort and will save thousands in future maintenance costs.” 

The estimated annual energy savings from the replacements in Plant and Soil Sciences, Biomedical Physical Sciences, Engineering and IPF Materials and Logistics’ buildings 209 and 210 alone, comes close to $150,000. 

“IPF plans to apply for additional incentives from Consumers, and along with data collected from completed facilities, hopes to expand the project to many other general-fund buildings,” Pride said. 

“The installations take about 15 minutes per fixture so areas will be impacted for only a short period,” said Mike Ramirez, an IPF electrical planner/inspector/analyst. “IPF is working closely with facility managers to coordinate the work and is even working nights/weekends in some areas to minimize disruption to building occupants.” 

Several different IPF crews, including electricians, Building Performance Services, Project Services, the Key Shop and Planning, Design and Construction, have been involved in the project.