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Facility Energy Use

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) facilities consume energy in the form of electricity and natural gas. Electricity is provided by JEA, while natural gas accounts are served by TECO Peoples Gas. The bulk of the Authority’s energy use in facilities is in the form of electricity consumption. Electric use has grown slowly, despite recent facility expansion. Natural gas use is increasing. The JTA is committed to sustainable growth and is implementing strategies to improve the energy efficiency of its buildings and operations thereby reducing energy consumption and impacts caused by fossil fuel consumption.

 

Lighting and Controls

Light Switch

A feature that can be found throughout the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center at LaVilla (JRTC) are updated lighting controls which include occupancy sensors. The JTA has been upgrading existing lighting controls at is primary facilities to also utilize these controls to assist in reduction of energy use. The JTA also has converted many of its lights to LED, which consume on average 90% less energy than traditional lightbulbs.

 

Electronics and Equipment

Computer back

Electronic equipment can contribute significant electricity demand in an office setting. The JTA has completed several projects that reduce electricity use from electronics and equipment, including enabling energy efficiency settings, using virtual servers and replacing escalators with more efficient models. As the JTA replaces electronics and equipment, more emphasis is being put on the sustainability and efficiency, leading to the purchase of more Energy Star and other certified products aimed at reducing energy consumption.

 

Renewable Energy

Bus Stop in Parking Lot

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems collect solar energy and convert it to electricity for use in buildings and other applications. PV modules are typically installed on a south-facing roof or installed in ground-based arrays. Power generated by the modules is converted from DC to AC current via integrated or centralized inverters. Commonly, the power generated is utilized immediately, with any excess sent to the grid. The JTA incorporated solar-powered LED lighting systems in approximately 270 bus shelters across Jacksonville. Additionally, all new non-powered, solar-accessible shelters will be designed to include solar-powered LED lighting. The JTA is exploring opportunities to utilize solar PV systems to power its facilities and provide shading for buses and customer and employee parking.

 

Submetering

Submetering can help reduce electricity bills and measure the success of energy conservation initiatives by allowing facility managers to monitor usage by individual building or operations, rather than just at a campus level. This facilitates identification of energy and / or money saving opportunities. The JTA is identifying opportunities to submeter the Myrtle Avenue Operations Campus, our primary transit operations and maintenance facilities, to better understand our energy consumption and identify strategies for reduction.