UNM, Lobo Energy partner with Yearout Energy for Sustainable Infrastructure Improvements

The University of New Mexico (UNM) and Lobo Energy Incorporated (LEI) are excited to announce their collaboration with Yearout Energy, an Energy Systems Group (ESG) company, on a significant initiative aimed at enhancing sustainability and operational efficiency on the UNM South Campus for $7.3 million.

This partnership commenced in April 2021 with the implementation of an Investment Grade Audit (IGA), which adheres to the guidelines established by the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department (NM-EMNRD) and the New Mexico General Services Department (NM-GSD).

The primary goal of the IGA was to identify Facility Improvement Measures (FIMs) that could be developed to capitalize on future utility and operational cost savings. In all, UNM is projected to save $286,141 in utilities in year one, as well as prolong the life of facility equipment by making the facilities easier to operate and maintain.

The UNM buildings that are being upgraded have been around since the 1990's and early 2000s, while other renovations date back to as early as 1951. By implementing these energy-saving measures, UNM will reduce annual energy costs by nearly 11.6% and reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by 2,213,534 lbs through the installation of solar photovoltaic technology, upgraded light fixtures, remediation of several building envelopes, and the standardization of equipment. The upgrades will also make it easier for facility managers to manage energy usage, especially during the harsh winter and spring months.

"Partnering with Yearout Energy represents a commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management," said President/CEO of Lobo Energy, Jason Strauss. "This initiative not only aligns with our mission to create a more sustainable and affordable production of energy on campus, but also supports our long-term infrastructure needs."

During the IGA process, Yearout Energy collaborated closely with UNM and LEI to pinpoint critical areas for improvement, focusing on strategies that will yield significant savings. These efforts not only enhance dated campus facilities, but also contribute to the overall goal of reducing the University's carbon footprint and advancing UNM and LEI's commitment to clean energy.

"We are proud to work alongside UNM and LEI on this transformative project," said Yearout Energy President, Colby Geer. "The findings from the IGA pave the way for sustainable improvements that benefit not just the University, but the Albuquerque community as well."

The University looks forward to the continued partnership with Lobo Energy and Yearout Energy moving toward implementing the following Facility Improvement Measures:

• Installation of over 7,000 new LED lighting fixtures with enhanced lighting controls
• Replacement of 180 tons of mechanical equipment with high-efficiency units
• Installation of a new Building Automation System (BAS)
• Replacement of boiler with new high-efficiency model
• Replacement of 58 low-voltage transformers with new high-efficiency low-voltage transformers
• Identification of rate change opportunities to reduce utility costs
• Duct sealing across multiple sites to remediate energy losses throughout the mechanical systems
• Remediation of building envelopes sealing areas that were creating energy losses
• Retro-commissioning (RCx) existing mechanical system at one site
• Installation of 181 kW DC carport solar PV system at the South Championship Golf Course

The project is anticipated to be completed by the summer of 2025.

** For additional information about the project of to schedule interviews, contact Jason Strauss, Lobo Energy, [email protected], 505-272-7192 and or Tammy Valentine, Yearout Energy, [email protected], 575-779-8285.