U.S.-based energy services provider Ameresco has secured a $197mn Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) to upgrade energy infrastructure at its Washington, D.C. campus and Chesapeake Bay Detachment. The contract, awarded through the U.S. Army Engineering Support Center (USACE) under the ESPC III Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC), will span 21 years.
A focus on ageing infrastructure
The project includes a full modernisation of steam generation and distribution systems, chilled water plants, and hydraulic networks, along with the deployment of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for real-time infrastructure oversight. The initiative aims to enhance operational resilience and generate substantial energy savings. Once fully operational, the project is expected to deliver $12.5mn in annual cost reductions, with total savings estimated at $362mn over the contract period.
Key upgrades will include replacement of critical infrastructure such as ageing steam and condensate lines, as well as site-wide conversion to smart LED lighting. Cooling tower systems will be optimised through enhanced water treatment processes and improved monitoring solutions, reducing energy waste and maintenance requirements.
Phased implementation to avoid disruption
The modernisation will be executed in phases to ensure uninterrupted mission-critical operations at NRL facilities. Work will include new equipment installations in boiler and chiller plants, along with plumbing retrofits across the site to improve safety and efficiency. These infrastructure investments are designed to increase energy reliability while supporting long-term operational continuity.
The contract is part of a broader federal strategy to improve energy independence and resilience in defence infrastructure. It ensures that NRL’s essential systems remain operational throughout the modernisation process without disrupting core activities.
