Loyola University New Orleans Celebrates Nearly $500,000 in Energy Smart Rebates and Major Campus Energy Savings

NEW ORLEANS - July 29, 2026 - Loyola University New Orleans today celebrated significant progress in its commitment to energy efficiency and infrastructure modernization, including $489,115 in rebates received through Energy Smart, an Entergy New Orleans program, between 2023 and 2025.

Representatives from Loyola, Entergy New Orleans and Energy Smart gathered on Loyola's campus Wednesday for a ceremonial check presentation recognizing a series of energy efficiency projects that have helped reduce campus electrical consumption by approximately 22% and generate approximately $700,000 in annual electricity cost savings.

"At Loyola, we believe responsible stewardship means investing wisely in both our people and our campus," said Dr. Xavier A. Cole, president of Loyola University New Orleans. "Our partnership with Energy Smart has allowed us to modernize critical infrastructure, reduce our environmental impact, and realize significant operational savings that can be reinvested in our educational mission. We are grateful for Energy Smart's outstanding partnership and shared commitment to building a more sustainable future."

With support from Energy Smart, Loyola has completed a series of major energy efficiency upgrades across campus, including modernization of its Central Plant, installation of a new Building Management System, chilled water system optimization, LED lighting upgrades, enhanced building automation and other infrastructure improvements designed to increase operational reliability, reduce maintenance needs and improve occupant comfort.

The impact has been significant. One chilled water optimization project alone is generating approximately $50,000 per month in energy and operational savings. Loyola's Central Plant, which accounts for approximately 37% of campus energy usage, now operates more efficiently, further reducing energy consumption and supporting the university's long-term sustainability efforts.

"Energy Smart is committed to helping businesses and institutions across New Orleans invest in energy efficiency solutions that deliver lasting benefits," said Ross Thevenot, Manager, Demand Side Management, Entergy New Orleans. "Loyola University is a tremendous example of how strong partnerships can drive meaningful results. We're proud to support projects that lower operating costs, strengthen critical infrastructure, and help organizations reinvest savings into the people and programs that serve our community."

The nearly $500,000 in Energy Smart rebates reflects Loyola's successful completion of multiple qualifying energy efficiency projects between 2023 and 2025 and underscores the value of strategic investment in modern, efficient campus infrastructure.

The collaboration reflects Loyola's broader commitment to responsible stewardship and long-term institutional sustainability. By reducing energy consumption and operating costs while modernizing critical infrastructure, the university is creating efficiencies that support its educational mission and strengthen the campus for future generations.

About Loyola University New Orleans
Loyola University New Orleans is a private Jesuit university committed to academic excellence, service and the education of the whole person. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, Loyola prepares students to lead meaningful lives with and for others while advancing responsible stewardship and creating lasting value for the New Orleans community and beyond.

About Energy Smart
Energy Smart is the comprehensive energy efficiency program developed by the New Orleans City Council and administered by Entergy New Orleans. The program provides financial incentives for energy efficiency upgrades that decrease unnecessary energy usage and help businesses and residents save money. Since launching in 2010, Energy Smart has paid more than $86 million in incentives to more than 176,000 participants, saving customers more than 644 gigawatt-hours of electricity.