Madison, Wis. – The School District of Arcadia celebrates the completion of energy-efficient heating
upgrades, marking another achievement in its ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational
improvement. These upgrades were made possible through a strong partnership with FOCUS ON
ENERGY® and local energy service company Upper 90 Energy LLC.

Under the leadership of Tom Fisher, the District's Director of Buildings and Grounds, the District has
prioritized energy efficiency and facility modernization. Fisher joined the District in 2023 and immediately
led efforts to replace aging and inefficient boiler systems in the high school and elementary school
buildings. “The boilers were at the end of their useful life and operating inefficiently,” Fisher explained. “The
upgrades not only enhance reliability but also lay the groundwork for energy savings that will benefit the
entire District.”

Project Highlights
The energy upgrades included:
• Installation of High-Efficiency Boilers: Both schools received two new hot water condensing
boilers capable of exceeding 90% efficiency by capturing and reusing heat.
• HVAC Fan Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): The elementary school’s heating system is fitted
with VFDs to optimize airflow and reduce energy use.
• Demand-Controlled Ventilation: A new system adjusts ventilation based on occupancy at the
high school, reducing energy waste while maintaining comfort.

As part of the project, the District received a check for $83,457.58 from Focus on Energy and expects to
save close to $40,000 annually on energy costs.

Though the systems were operational as of mid-November 2024, feedback from teachers and staff has
already been positive. Classrooms now maintain more consistent and comfortable temperatures,
creating a better environment for learning and work.
“We’re already seeing the benefits,” Fisher said. “The incentive check from Focus on Energy will help us
recover costs and keep moving forward with our energy goals.”

Focus on Energy’s Support
Since 2005, the School District of Arcadia has partnered with Focus on Energy for energy audits and
project support. This collaboration has streamlined the process for energy improvements, with Focus on
Energy overseeing paperwork and providing technical guidance.

David Voss, an Energy Advisor who works closely with the District, said, “Arcadia is a great example of
how proactive planning can lead to big improvements. These upgrades will save energy and create a
better environment for students and staff. We are proud to support their efforts and look forward to
seeing the long-term benefits.”

The District plans to continue its energy efficiency journey with future projects, including exploring
upgrades to the steam boiler system in older parts of the elementary school.

About Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy is Wisconsin utilities' statewide energy efficiency and renewable resource program
funded by the state's investor-owned energy utilities and participating municipal and electric cooperative
utilities. Focus on Energy works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost-effective
energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Focus on Energy information, resources, and financial
incentives help to implement projects that otherwise would not be completed. Its efforts help Wisconsin
residents and businesses manage rising energy costs, promote in-state economic development, protect
our environment, and control Wisconsin's growing demand for electricity and natural gas. For more
information, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.