Chicago Park District Receives Notable Recognition from Peoples Gas for Efforts in Reducing Its Carbon Footprint

Energy-saving practices at the Park District protect the environment, earns energy-efficiency award

CHICAGO, IL — With support from the Peoples Gas energy efficiency team, the Chicago Park District reduced its energy use by 92,000 therms of natural gas in less than two years of implementing energy efficiency measures. This effort lowered the Park District’s energy bills - and the energy saved is the equivalent of more than 485 metric tons of carbon dioxide not released into the atmosphere. Peoples Gas commends the Chicago Park District for reducing its carbon footprint and protecting the environment at a ceremony held at the Garfield Park Conservatory last month. Peoples Gas commemorated the Park District’s achievements with a plaque that is displayed at the Park District. 

“The Chicago Park District holds in high regard its commitment to being the city’s green stewards, and prioritizes evaluating efforts and operations to implement sustainable programs and reduce its environmental footprint while preserving our parks well into the future,’” said Victoria Cordova, director of facility management for the Chicago Park District. “Efficiency promotional programs offered by Peoples Gas are instrumental to making our agency’s goals achievable.”

The Park District has taken advantage of approximately $235,000 in energy efficiency program incentives to help fund 84 energy efficiency projects, including boiler tune-ups, steam trap testing and replacement, new construction projects, and pipe insulation. Using Peoples Gas energy efficiency program funds means money saved for the Park District that can be directed to other operational expenses for the many parks throughout the city, as well as programming that serves the people, families, and children of Chicago.   

“The Park District is a great example of the strong energy savings that can be achieved when a customer starts working with our energy efficiency team to reduce energy consumption, protect the environment and save money,” said Jarred Nordhus, principal manager of Energy Efficiency Programs at Peoples Gas. “We are extremely proud of the Chicago Park District for this significant environmental impact that contributes to a bright, sustainable energy future for the city of Chicago.”   

The Park District will continue to build on these initial successes by engaging in projects like the completion of an HVAC boiler condensate recovery project. Planning is underway for further energy efficiency work with Peoples Gas as part of the Park District’s mission, which includes giving people of all ages, identities, and abilities access to sustainable green spaces in every neighborhood.  

Earlier last year, the Park District released its first ever Sustainability Report titled “Parks Are Making Chicago a Greener City” highlighting efforts and accomplishments that align with the agency’s five-year Strategic Plan, which includes the creation of ‘A Greener City’ by responsibly managing resources for long-term environmental and financial resiliency. To view the full report, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com/sustainability-report.