The Township of Rochelle Park, a close-knit Bergen County community founded in 1871, is proving that smart energy decisions can deliver benefits beyond lower utility bills. Working with PSE&G, Rochelle Park completed a series of targeted municipal facility upgrades at its Recreation Center, the Rochelle Park Fire Headquarters and the Department of Public Works building that are already strengthening operations, enhancing comfort and freeing up resources that can be reinvested directly back into the community. The project was completed through our Direct Install Program, one of several energy efficiency solutions available to municipalities and small-to-midsize businesses.
Prior to these improvements, these three township facilities faced persistent challenges related to aging heating and cooling equipment, inconsistent building performance and frequent service calls. Staff regularly reported comfort issues, and maintenance teams were spending considerable time troubleshooting equipment rather than focusing on other community priorities.
What upgrades were completed?
Through our program, the township implemented a comprehensive set of upgrades designed to address these longstanding issues. Improvements included LED lighting retrofits across all facilities, installation of high-efficiency HVAC systems, a furnace replacement at the recreation center and added pipe insulation at the fire headquarters.
These upgrades were carefully selected to improve reliability, reduce energy use and bring critical infrastructure up to modern standards.
How are the upgrades improving township operations?
Since these upgrades were installed, township officials have reported improved indoor comfort for both staff and visitors, along with fewer maintenance issues and service calls. System reliability has improved to the point where only minor issues now require attention, creating smoother and more predictable day-to-day operations across facilities.
In addition to improved performance, the upgrades are delivering measurable energy and cost savings. Across all upgraded facilities, Rochelle Park is saving more than 73,000 kilowatt-hours of energy annually — equating to approximately $7,170 in yearly energy cost savings.
With nearly half of the total $141,244 project cost covered through PSE&G incentives, the township was able to complete these improvements in a highly cost-effective way.
These types of energy upgrades aren’t just about buildings; they’re about creating the capacity to extend resources within organizations and communities.”
— Lauren Thomas, Vice President, Clean Energy Solutions – Customer Solutions
And in the case of Rochelle Park, these savings are being redirected back into the community.
There are plans to reinvest funds into:
- New scoreboards and benches at Carlock Field
- New fitness equipment at the recreation center
- New EMS and fire prevention resources for the firehouse and volunteer ambulance corps
- Essential DPW needs, including fleet maintenance, road salt and waste services
As noted by Mayor Thomas Miller, “by lowering energy costs, Rochelle Park is able to reinvest directly into the services and public spaces residents rely on every day.”
What long-term benefits can energy efficiency upgrades provide?
Beyond the financial benefits, these upgrades have streamlined operations for township staff. According to Township Administrator Samantha Carpio, township maintenance teams are spending less time troubleshooting equipment and more time focusing on proactive upkeep and community priorities.
Together, reduced repair expenses and improved system performance are helping ensure township facilities remain reliable, safe and comfortable long into the future.
Rochelle Park’s experience highlights how municipalities of any size can leverage energy efficiency programs to modernize infrastructure without straining budgets.
As the township continues reinvesting savings into community programs and services, its experience serves as an example of how energy efficiency upgrades can support municipal operations, improve public spaces and enhance quality of life for residents.
Interested in exploring energy efficiency programs for your business?
Interested in exploring which of our energy efficiency programs may be the right fit for your business?
Visit pseg.com/BizSavings to learn more about available programs, incentives and ways to reduce energy use and learn more about the impact our energy efficiency programs have had across the state at pseg.com/ImpactHub.
