Oklahoma Panhandle State University is leading the charge toward sustainability and operational efficiency by installing SmartStat technology in the Aggie Apartments. This impactful project, funded by deferred maintenance allocations from the Oklahoma state legislature, highlights OPSU’s efforts to improve the student experience while advancing environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.

According to Liz McMurphy, Vice President of Fiscal Affairs, the deferred maintenance funds were allocated to maximize impact. “We made significant efforts to support the student experience by upgrading our technology infrastructure and classroom technology. At the same time, we prioritized energy efficiency and projects that mitigate potential risks, such as freezing winter temperatures, which have caused operational disruptions in the past. Our goal was to reduce future operational costs and make visible, meaningful improvements for students,” said McMurphy.

This funding also builds on years of planning to improve campus infrastructure. McMurphy highlighted the strategic alignment, noting, “This deferred maintenance funding has enabled us to make huge strides in plans we’ve had in place for years but lacked funding to execute until now.”

SmartStat technology, provided by Harrison Energy, is designed to optimize energy usage through advanced automation, including ambient temperature monitoring and operational adjustments. The system is projected to save over 100,000 kilowatt hours annually and extend the life of HVAC equipment, thereby reducing material waste and the environmental impact of equipment replacement.

“The project exemplifies leadership’s forward-thinking approach to meet long-term goals, both financially and sustainably,” said Matt Mieir of Harrison Energy. “Using proven technology like SmartStats, OPSU is reducing energy usage, mitigating risks such as pipe freezing, and ensuring comfortable living spaces for students.”

The environmental benefits go beyond utility savings, encompassing reduced material usage, minimized construction impact, and extended infrastructure lifespan. These efforts align with OPSU’s broader goals of sustainability and operational efficiency.

The installation of SmartStats has already improved student comfort and operational efficiency in the Aggie Apartments. By reducing help tickets and minimizing downtime, OPSU’s maintenance teams can focus on long-term planning and campus-wide improvements.

“We have seen a significant reduction in help tickets with the HVAC upgrades made over the past two years,” said McMurphy. “These energy savings allow us to reinvest in operations and other sustainability initiatives, furthering our path to long-term sustainability.”

This initiative’s success was made possible through the sustained efforts of state leaders, including Speaker Pro Tempore Kyle Hilbert and campus leadership, who advocated for deferred maintenance funding.

“The funding we received has enabled significant progress toward our sustainability goals,” McMurphy said. “However, continued investments are critical to address additional infrastructure needs, such as replacing windows and utility lines.”

As OPSU continues to prioritize sustainability, future projects include further replacing aging windows and utility systems to enhance energy efficiency. These efforts reflect the university’s dedication to creating a safe, comfortable, and sustainable environment for students, faculty, and staff.

With the SmartStat project setting a new standard for campus living, OPSU remains committed to educating students and improving lives through forward-thinking investments in infrastructure and technology.

For more information about OPSU’s energy efficiency initiatives, please contact Liz McMurphy at [email protected].