This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Local Voices

North Suburban YMCA Aces EnerNOC Demand Reduction Test

In an effort to be “on reserve” to shed power if the electrical grid is in danger of a blackout or a brownout condition, the North Suburban YMCA has again contracted with EnerNOC to be part of a Demand Response Program.  EnerNOC pays companies to work with utility companies to establish a “demand response capacity” that calculates the energy savings companies could provide to the energy grid in the event of a disastrous grid emergency.  

After a successful test experience in 2011, the Y opted to participate in EnerNOC testing again this year. During a recent test on August 6th, the Y shut down power throughout the building except for emergency lights and alarms, phones and computer servers. These steps enabled the Y to drop its energy demand for the entire 105 minute test period to 0 KWH. In recognition of this accomplishment, the Y will receive an incentive payment of over $2,100. The test also provided the side benefit of allowing the Y to demonstrate the effectiveness of its new emergency lighting system, installed as part of the Y’s extensive renovations in 2012.

During the test period when normal building operations were suspended, the Y staff presented a number of activities to keep members, guests and campers occupied. Day camp activities were moved outside, and a free yoga class took place on the lawn. Guests were also offered refreshments along with helpful information about energy conservation. The Y utilized a variety of social media resources to inform members about the test procedure, minimizing any inconvenience for the building’s users.

Find out what's happening in Glenviewwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“I’m glad to say that we passed our Energy Demand Response test with flying colors,” noted Howard Schultz, NSYMCA Executive Director/CEO. “The incentive payment will help support camp scholarships for 15 of our campers, and we also have the satisfaction of knowing that we can be part of the solution if a true energy emergency arises in the community or elsewhere in the country.”

About the North Suburban YMCA

Find out what's happening in Glenviewwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The YMCA is a not-for-profit entity and relies on donations to fund capital improvements and transform the facility. All board members are community volunteers, who donate their time, talents and financial resources.  Located at 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook, the YMCA has served area families in its twelve-city region for over 40 years.  The Y is about youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, providing programs and services that meet the needs of our community and are accessible to all.  For more information or to make a donation call Barb Flanagin at 847-272-7250, bflanagin@nsymca.org, or visit www.nsymca.org.





We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?