McKinstry Drives Energy-Saving Lighting Upgrades Across Colorado Schools

Colorado schools are modernizing campuses to meet new energy efficiency standards and comply with fluorescent lighting bans that took effect Jan. 1, 2025. Across the state, districts are adopting LED upgrades and broader energy-saving measures to cut utility costs, enhance learning environments and create safer, more comfortable spaces. McKinstry is helping dozens of schools put these solutions into action.

“Upgrading to LED and implementing energy-saving measures across districts not only reduces utility costs. It also enhances comfort and productivity for students and staff,” said Scott Haerbig, director of lighting solutions at McKinstry.

Adams 12 Five Star Schools

Adams 12 completed a comprehensive lighting retrofit at five schools, replacing older fluorescent fixtures with high-efficiency LED systems. The upgrades have improved lighting quality in classrooms, hallways and common areas while generating noticeable energy savings of about $800,000 over the 20-year life of the system. McKinstry also integrated solar energy and other efficiency measures to support the district’s sustainability goals, coordinating installations around school hours to minimize disruption.

Aurora Public Schools

Aurora Public Schools partnered with McKinstry on a district-wide lighting modernization at eight schools. The project targeted classrooms, hallways and gyms, installing advanced LED fixtures with dimming capabilities and motion sensors to optimize energy use. Beyond improving visibility, the upgrades addressed aging equipment and deferred maintenance while enhancing comfort for students and staff. Energy savings from lighting are expected to be around $1.1M over the 20-year life of the system.

Jefferson County Schools

Jefferson County worked with McKinstry under a construction manager/general contractor approach to implement energy-saving lighting upgrades and broader efficiency improvements across 15 schools. McKinstry engaged closely with district staff to understand their priorities, bringing physical light fixtures for staff and decision-makers to see and touch. This hands-on approach ensured the new systems met expectations for quality, comfort and long-term performance.

LED lighting retrofits and smart controls have helped the district lower energy use, reduce maintenance needs and improve learning spaces. By focusing on Jefferson County’s long-term goals, McKinstry delivered practical, sustainable solutions that align with the district’s vision. The project has already contributed meaningful reductions in energy costs.

Looking Ahead

With Colorado’s fluorescent lighting ban now in effect, projects like these help districts comply while reducing costs and enhancing learning environments. McKinstry integrates energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy solutions and advanced controls to support long-term sustainability for its clients.