Eagle Scout Gives Lowcountry Children’s Center an Energy Efficiency Upgrade

CHARLESTON, SC – August 28 , 2010 – Eagle Scout, Jack Schaaf will complete the third phase of an energy efficiency upgrade for the Lowcountry Children’s Center on Saturday, August 28th.  The Children’s Center is located at 1061 King Street and the building is owned by the City of Charleston. The project started after Jack asked Mayor Riley for sponsorship on his Eagle Scout project. Jack Schaaf is 16 years old and a student at Academic Magnet School.

The energy efficiency project includes retrofitting the lighting system to advanced lighting technology for the 10,000 square foot facility. In addition to upgrading the ceiling lamps, all desk lights and table lamps will be converted to compact fluorescent bulbs.  The exit lights and specialty lights will also be replaced with more energy efficient lamps. Advanced programmable thermostats will be installed to control the large heating and air conditioning systems more efficiently after hours and on the weekends when the facility is not in use saving on costly utility bills.

The project will be completed by a group of 30 volunteers and Boy Scouts supporting Jack Schaaf.  When complete, the project is expected to save the Lowcountry Children’s Center $100,000 over a 10 year period.  In addition to saving money, the project will show a substantial reduction in greenhouse gasses as a result of using much less electricity for the lighting, heating, and air conditioning systems. The project is consistent with the energy savings program the City of Charleston has been implementing for several years.

Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. said, “I am so proud of this ambitious young man who volunteered his time and effort to upgrade one of our City buildings. His project will benefit the children of the lowcountry as well as the environment for years to come.”