Calhoun County, AL – Calhoun County Schools has announced the launch of a district-wide infrastructure modernization project in partnership with Schneider Electric, a global energy management and efficiency company. District leaders say the initiative is part of a broader effort to invest in safe, modern, and efficient learning environments for students and staff across the system.
Installation for the first phase of the modernization project began in February and will focus on foundational upgrades across more than 2 million square feet of district facilities. Officials with Calhoun County Schools say the long-term plan is designed to improve facility operations, enhance classroom environments, and support future infrastructure planning through data-driven decision making.
The initial phase includes several upgrades intended to improve efficiency and comfort within district buildings. Planned improvements include standardized LED lighting to enhance light quality and reduce energy consumption, installation of a centralized Building Automation System to improve operational control and indoor comfort, and implementation of an operational and financial planning tool to provide insights into building conditions, replacement priorities, and long-term budgeting.
District officials noted that the system manages more than 2 million square feet of facilities and more than 1,200 HVAC assets, creating growing operational complexity and rising costs. Energy spending has increased in recent years due in part to aging infrastructure, limited building automation, and rising utility rates. The modernization effort is projected to save the district more than $7 million over the next 20 years.
Calhoun County Board of Education President Michael Webb expressed support for the initiative, highlighting both visible and behind-the-scenes improvements expected through the project.
“As a board member, I am very excited about the upgrades across our system that have been made possible through our partnership with Schneider Electric. When you walk through some of our older buildings, it’s easy to see areas that clearly needed attention. However, what excites me most are the critical upgrades that aren’t always visible on the surface but became clear through the detailed energy usage reports compiled by Schneider,” Webb said.
Webb also emphasized the financial structure of the partnership. “The best part of this partnership is that Schneider Electric truly puts their money where their mouth is by guaranteeing the savings they project. This ensures fiscal responsibility while allowing us to make long-overdue improvements that benefit our students, staff, and taxpayers. This partnership represents another significant step forward for Calhoun County Schools, and I’m proud to be part of a board that is committed to smart, forward-thinking investments in our system.”
In addition to the first phase of work, district officials confirmed that planning for the next stage of modernization is already underway. Future phases are expected to extend upgrades to additional schools and facilities throughout the district as part of a long-term infrastructure improvement strategy.
Schneider Electric, headquartered globally and operating in more than 100 countries, provides energy technology and sustainability solutions for public and private sector organizations. The company’s technologies focus on improving operational efficiency, digital integration, and sustainability across buildings and infrastructure.
