The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) commended Fordham University for obtaining LEED Gold designation from the USGBC. The recently constructed Rose Hill Dormitories are two, 83,500 s/f buildings with multiple stories. Each dormitory was designed to optimize energy usage and performance and constructed according to environmentally sustainable building practices. Fordham University obtained this recognition in part because of energy-efficient, green building measures that were supported by $555,000 of NYSERDA incentives. This funding will help the university reduce energy costs by $174,000 annually with new high performance lighting and occupancy controls, high efficiency chillers and boilers, a heat recovery system and various other energy efficiency measures. "Energy efficiency and sustainable building materials are the most cost-effective investments colleges and universities can make for long-term savings and a healthy indoor learning and work environment for students, faculty and staff," said Francis Murray Jr., president and CEO of NYSERDA. "I commend Fordham University for the high priority it places on conserving energy and protecting our environment." "We're thrilled with the Gold designation for the two new buildings, Campbell Hall and Salice-Conley Hall, and with the recognition from NYSERDA," said Marc Valera, vice president for facilities at the University. "As part of our sustainability policy, the University has committed to designing new buildings to Silver level. NYSERDA's financial support enabled us to reach higher and attain LEED Gold." The energy savings-nearly 848,000 kilowatt hours-is equivalent to the amount of electricity consumed by 123 single-family homes annually and will be realized by the University every year for years to come. The Rose Hill Dormitories are rated to perform nearly 29% above the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code. Since 2009, NYSERDA has provided more than $21 million to help reduce electricity consumption by more than 94 million kilowatt hours in nearly 200 new construction projects throughout N.Y.C. The energy savings is equivalent to the annual amount of electricity consumed by 13,665 single-family homes. NYSERDA's New Construction Program provides assistance to incorporate energy efficiency measures and sustainable building practices into the design, construction and operation of new or substantially renovated buildings. Green building incentives also are available to customers pursuing LEED certification. These measures are designed to save energy through reduced electricity demand, and therefore reduce building operating costs. For existing facilities, NYSERDA incentives can be used for lighting retrofits, upgrades to motors systems, energy management systems, heating and cooling systems and other operations. Assistance also is available for energy audits to help indentify cost-effective opportunities to increase energy efficiency, develop greenhouse gas emission inventories and more. For more information, visit www.NYSERDA.org. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise and funding to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA professionals work to protect our environment and create clean-energy jobs. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been developing partnerships to advance innovative energy solutions in New York since 1975.