Energy Efficiency Pays Off: KCTCS Receives $1.5 Million Through Clean Energy Tax Credits in Recognition of ECTC On-Site Training Center

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) has been awarded $1.5 million in federal funding through clean energy tax credits in recognition of the sustainable, energy-efficient design of the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) On-Site Training Center in Glendale, Kentucky. This funding, granted under the Inflation Reduction Act’s energy efficiency incentive program, underscores the value of strategic, high-performance design solutions and their role in achieving both environmental and economic goals.

Designed by Omni Architects in collaboration with CMTA, the ECTC On-Site Training Center stands as a state-of-the-art facility, built to deliver impactful workforce training for the Ford BlueOval SK Battery Park—one of Kentucky’s most significant economic development initiatives. The design incorporates high-performance systems, including a geothermal HVAC system and a photovoltaic solar array, which work together to minimize the building’s carbon footprint and operational costs. These innovative solutions were pivotal in securing federal funding, providing the college with valuable resources to support future capital improvements and equipment upgrades.

“KCTCS exemplifies leadership in sustainable building practices,” said Chad Gallas, AIA, Partner with Omni Architects. “Through forward-thinking design and a commitment to long-term value, this project showcases how energy-efficient solutions enable organizations to access critical funding while creating high-performing environments for education and innovation.” The building is performing extremely well with an EUI of 23.35 and an annual utility cost of $41,292.73.  This means the  building is operating at a cost of $0.90 per square foot.  

This achievement reaffirms KCTCS’s commitment to advancing sustainability in higher education. By placing energy efficiency at the forefront during the planning and construction phases, the institution demonstrates how thoughtful design can simultaneously meet the educational needs of today and the environmental needs of the future.

The On-Site Training Center is set to be a driving force for workforce development in the region. Since opening in 2024, the ECTC facility has successfully trained over 600 students in advanced manufacturing and electric vehicle (EV)-related programs, effectively preparing the next generation of skilled technicians and engineers. The center’s dedication to workforce readiness aligns closely with the mission of Ford’s BlueOval SK Battery Park, which aims to create nearly 5,000 full-time jobs in Kentucky by the end of 2026

KCTCS reaffirms its commitment to sustainability in higher education by prioritizing energy efficiency in planning and construction. This approach highlights how strategic design can address both current educational demands and future environmental responsibilities.

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