The West Charleston Library recently shelved its water-intensive evaporative cooler for a new, highly efficient air-cooled system. Evaporative cooling systems are the second largest consumer of Southern Nevada’s water supply and are often used to cool large indoor spaces.
By replacing the old chiller that consumed large volumes of water to cool its West Charleston Branch, the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District brings a new era of sustainability. This will reduce maintenance costs associated with condenser tube cleaning, tower upkeep and the water treatment required to operate the system.
“Most importantly, though, the new cooler will reduce water consumption,” said Fernando Rosete, Library District Facilities Manager. “As a local organization, we are well aware that the Colorado River Basin is experiencing the worst drought in recorded history. The Library District recognizes our responsibility for environmental stewardship.”
The Library District’s strong commitment to economic and social sustainability led Rosete to consider replacing the old water-cooled system with the new air-cooled chiller. He applied for a Water Efficient Technology (WET) rebate from the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) to help offset some of the costs associated with replacing the cooling system.
“We strive to advance education, technologies and innovations that will improve and protect the environment for future generations,” said Rosete.
The SNWA WET rebate provides up to $500,000 in cash incentives to replace evaporative and swamp chillers with dry-cooled systems. The rebate covers up to half the total project cost (some restrictions apply).
Businesses and multifamily properties also may qualify for WET rebates by installing a variety of water-efficient devices and technologies. The amount of the rebate depends upon the technology and where thatsavings occurs—indoors or outdoors.
“The WET program, with its many options for innovation and financial incentives, is helping the Library District achieve its goal for environmental stewardship,” Rosete said.
“The West Charleston Library upgrade is a great example of what we’d like to see in the Las Vegas Valley going forward,” said Dennis Gegen, SNWA Conservation Programs Coordinator. “While new ordinances take effect later this year that prohibit evaporative cooling systems in new construction, it’s important existing businesses also consider replacing the water-thirsty models with more water-efficient systems.”
The SNWA is working with business leaders to implement a conservation measure prohibiting evaporative cooling in new commercial and industrial buildings throughout Southern Nevada. The measure is expected to save the community a tremendous amount of water.
“Everyone who lives and works in the Las Vegas Valley shares the same water source and has the same responsibility for water conservation,” Rosete said. “We highly recommend taking advantage of the WET program, not only for improvements, financial incentives and rebates, but also to do your part for the benefit of all who call the valley home.”
Rosete added that the SNWA staff provided helpful insights during the rebate process. “Their support, knowledge and suggestions have been instrumental in helping the Library District meet its water conservation goals,” Rosete said.
“We provide a concierge service to businesses and help them identify ways to save water and reduce overhead costs. We also share our experience gained from working with other commercial properties to suggest best practices and point out potential challenges,” Gegen said.
To learn how you or your business can conserve water and ensure you are meeting new water conservation requirements, visit snwa.com. To take advantage of SNWA’s cash incentives for businesses, call 702-862-3740 or email cashincentives@snwa.com
Members of the editorial and news staff of the Las Vegas Review-Journal were not involved in the creation of this content.