Massachusetts-based Ameresco has completed a comprehensive building infrastructure rehabilitation and optimisation project at the Art Institute of Chicago.

The multi-phase initiative has improved air quality, humidity control and overall building performance, while introducing maintenance tracking and notification systems. These enhancements directly support the museum’s mission to share its collections with the city of Chicago and the world.

Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago (www.artic.edu) is one of the world’s major museums, housing an extraordinary collection of objects from across places, cultures and time. The newly implemented systems use customised cloud-based machine-learning algorithms to optimise air handler conditioning, achieving energy savings of 30 to 50% in cooling and reheat energy.

These savings allow the museum to redirect funds towards its mission of fostering inclusive cultural exchange and inspiring expansive understandings of human creativity.

The project’s technical backbone includes machine-learning models that monitor building performance and deliver optimised setpoints for air handling equipment. These models work in tandem with the building automation system (BAS) to reduce energy consumption while allowing the museum to continue maintaining desired environmental and comfort conditions.

“Working with the Art Institute of Chicago on this initiative has been deeply rewarding,” said Lou Maltezos from Ameresco. “This project supports the museum’s role as a vital, leading cultural institution. By improving environmental conditions and reducing energy use, we’re helping the museum focus its resources on enriching public engagement and honouring its legacy as a steward of global artistic heritage.”

To learn more about the energy efficiency technology offered by Ameresco, visit www.ameresco.com/energy-efficiency/.

Founded in 2000, Ameresco (www.ameresco.com) helps its customers reduce costs, enhance resilience and decarbonise to net zero in the global energy transition. Its portfolio includes implementing smart energy efficiency products, upgrading aging infrastructure, and developing, constructing and operating distributed energy resources. Headquartered in Framingham, Massachusetts, Ameresco has more than 1500 employees in North America and Europe.