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Salas O’Brien selected for University of Colorado Boulder’s landmark decarbonization plan
This partnership marks the beginning of a transformative energy journey for the university, and demonstrates Salas O’Brien’s continued leadership in higher ed decarbonization.
The University of Colorado Boulder has selected Salas O’Brien to lead the design of its comprehensive campus decarbonization plan, which aims to cut emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The university’s 2024 Climate Action Plan calls for converting its aging steam heating system to low-temperature hot water powered by clean energy. As the design partner, Salas O’Brien will refine the campus-wide phasing strategy and develop a digital twin of CU’s energy systems to support detailed modeling and scenario planning.
While this is one of Salas O’Brien’s first major energy projects with CU Boulder, the firm brings a track record of success at campuses like Princeton, Carleton College, and Ball State. Over the past year alone, Salas O’Brien has played a key role in more than 20 higher ed decarbonization projects across North America, reinforcing its leadership in the field.
The initial design phase is expected to conclude by 2026, kicking off a decade of implementation aimed at creating a more resilient, sustainable campus.
Read CU Boulder’s announcement here.
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