The University of Illinois Chicago initiated a $30 million energy conservation project to tackle deferred maintenance without upfront costs, partnering with Ameresco under an energy savings performance contract. The project entails replacing aging HVAC units and installing smart controls in key campus buildings. Expected outcomes include $1 million in annual energy savings and significant greenhouse gas reductions. This approach accelerates renovation timelines by leveraging future savings to finance upgrades, addressing urgent infrastructure needs in large public universities.