SIU Carbondale launches $9.9M lighting upgrade across 33 campus buildings
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is moving forward with a $9.9 million project to replace aging fluorescent lighting in 33 campus buildings.
The SIU Board of Trustees approved the project in April. The upgrades include LED lighting and occupancy sensors that will automatically turn off lights when rooms are not in use.
University officials estimate the improvements will save about $570,000 in energy costs during the first year. SIU also expects to receive about $150,000 in energy-efficiency incentives from Ameren Illinois.
Work began over the summer and will primarily take place from 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. once the fall semester begins. The project is expected to be completed in early 2027.
Buildings receiving upgrades include Morris Library, Lawson Hall, Pulliam Hall, Shryock Auditorium, the Student Services Building, the Engineering Complex, Simmons Law School and several science and academic buildings.
SIU officials said the new LED tubes use about 65% less electricity than the fluorescent lamps they are replacing. Combined with occupancy sensors, the upgrades are expected to save about 4.8 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually and reduce electricity purchases for the main campus by about 7.4%.
The university said rising utility costs also contributed to the decision to move forward with the project. According to SIU, utility rates increased 47% from fiscal year 2024 to fiscal year 2026. The project also comes as Illinois phases out certain fluorescent lamps containing mercury.
“This initiative is part of SIU Carbondale’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, which is one of the pillars in the Imagine 2030 Strategic Plan,” Susan Simmers, vice chancellor for administration and finance, said. “The new light sensors will be an important feature that brings the university significant energy and cost savings.”
SIU officials said the upgrades are not expected to significantly change the amount or quality of lighting inside campus buildings.
