Oklahoma State University
OP-16: Life Cycle Cost Analysis

Oklahoma State University employs Life Cycle Costs Analysis (LCCA) when evaluating energy- and water-using products and systems across some, but not all, divisions of the Stillwater campus. OSU’s Long Range Facilities Planning division, which plans large construction projects, applies LCCA on all new construction. For example, the construction RFP for the new $79M Central Power Plant included total cost of ownership (TCO) as part of the award process. Whether initiatives are employed or not is examined on a building-by-building basis. For instance, the LCCA for the use of geothermal heat-pump energy in the new Veterinary Medicine building will result in geothermal being installed, while the LCCA for the new residential hall called “The Commons” revealed that geothermal would not be practical for that building’s location. In another example, the Utilities and Energy Management division utilizes Energy Savings Performance Contracts, which employ TCO for all purchases and services supporting the campus energy savings program, steam traps and insulation blankets, chilled water plant upgrades, and Henry Bellmon Research Center ventilation. For OSU’s Operations & Maintenance division, when appliances, equipment and systems are replaced, Energy Star units are used as a matter of practice. OSU is an EPA Energy Star Partner. Furthermore, all building retrofits reflect the installation of high-efficiency plumbing fixtures and fittings such as low-flow flush valves, sink and shower aerators given the lower TCO of these products. These practices also apply to the Residential Life Facilities Management division. Although purchasing on campus is decentralized, OSU also utilizes statewide purchase contracts approved by the State of Oklahoma, for which TCO was a factor in the state award process.