The Power of a Pool: Dinuba and Chevron Energy Solutions Complete Community Aquatic Complex and School Upgrades

Public-private partnership in California’s Central Valley brings cost savings, energy-efficient learning and athletic facilities

DINUBA, Calif., September 11, 2009 — Dinuba Unified School District, the City of Dinuba and Chevron Energy Solutions today announced the opening of the Dinuba Aquatic Complex, the culmination of a series of school building projects that are bringing energy cost savings and improved learning facilities to this Central Valley community. The $11.6 million pool complex was made possible through modernization funds made available by energy efficiency projects, as well as funding from the city, community members and state grants.

Chevron Energy Solutions developed, engineered and constructed the new state-of-the-art complex, replacing a highly energy inefficient 1950s-era pool that was leaking 14,000 gallons of water per day. The complex features a competition pool with a digital timing and touch pad scoreboard for instantaneous feedback and display, tot pool for youth water play and swimming lessons, joint use building with a snack bar, lifeguard station, coach’s office, restrooms and training/storage areas, and a shaded plaza area for eating and group activities.

“The City of Dinuba is delighted to be part of this collaboration to bring this new aquatic complex to our community,” said Dinuba Mayor Mark Wallace. “The pools serve as an important resource for our city, and are a symbol of the value of public-private partnership.”

Chevron Energy Solutions has worked with the school district since 2005 to improve its energy efficiency and capture energy savings, while helping to secure state funding to defray project costs. Studies confirm there is a strong relationship between the school’s physical condition, student attendance, test scores and learning performance. The energy efficiency improvements included lighting efficiency upgrades for all district facilities, replacement of old heating, ventilating and air conditioning equipment, and installation of new roofs and an energy management system. These improvements also included the complete renovation of a classroom building with five new high-tech science laboratories that enabled the district to receive state modernization funds. A portion of these funds were directed to the new aquatic complex. In addition, the upgrades enabled the district to reduce its purchase of utility power, which is lowering carbon emissions by more than 825 metric tons, equivalent to planting more than 180 acres of trees.

In addition to the energy efficiency and classroom improvements, Chevron Energy Solutions worked with the school district to incorporate information into the school’s curriculum that helps educate teachers, students and staff about the importance of energy efficiency. The company also participated in the high school’s career development program, providing information about careers in engineering, business development and other fields.

“We used our ABCs – achievement by collaboration – to make the energy efficiency improvements and new aquatic complex a reality,” said Jim Davis, president of Chevron Energy Solutions. “Other cities and school districts can learn how to improve their communities through public-private partnerships.”

An event to celebrate the completion of the Dinuba Aquatic Complex will be held on September 12 with students, government, business and district officials in attendance.

About Dinuba Unified School District
The Dinuba Unified School District consists of five elementary schools that serve grades K - 5, one sixth grade academy, one intermediate school, one high school, an alternative high school, an adult school and an adult independent study program for a total of approximately 6,000 students. Four of the school sites have been awarded the title of California Distinguished School by the State of California Department of Education: Lincoln and Jefferson Elementary Schools, Dinuba High School and Sierra Vista Continuation School. Community and staff are dedicated and committed to excellence in education and working to meet the diverse needs of all students in a safe environment. For more information, please visit www.dinubausd.org.

About the City of Dinuba
The City of Dinuba’s motto of "Together, A Better Community" is achieved by employees working together as an organization and with the community; providing services which can be most appropriately provided by local government; achieving goals established by the residents and elected officials; maintaining order and improving quality of life; and protecting the overall interest of the community. For more information, please visit www.dinuba.org.

About Chevron Energy Solutions
Chevron Energy Solutions develops and builds sustainable energy projects that increase energy efficiency and renewable power, reduce energy costs, and ensure reliable, high-quality energy for government, education and business facilities. The company was named by Fast Company magazine as one of “The World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies” and one of the top five “Most Innovative Clean Energy Companies.” Chevron Energy Solutions has designed hundreds of projects and is the largest installer of solar power for education institutions in the U.S. Its parent, Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), is investing across the energy spectrum to develop energy sources for future generations by expanding the capabilities of alternative and renewable energy technologies. Chevron spent approximately $3.2 billion on developing these technologies since 2002, and expects to spend more than $3.2 billion in this area between 2009 and 2011.

Contacts:
Juliet Don, Chevron Energy Solutions, 415.733.4673

Dr. Joe Hernandez, Superintendent, Dinuba Unified School District, 559.595.7200

Ed Todd, City of Dinuba, 559.591.5900 ext. 102

Back to Top