Grayslake — Grayslake District 127 is among the first school districts in Illinois to use cutting-edge carbon capture technology as part of its heating system. Working with the North Shore Gas Energy Efficiency Program, the district installed a CarbinX unit at Grayslake North High School. The technology enables high-efficiency heating while also capturing any related carbon emissions. North Shore Gas presented the district with an award for the district’s commitment to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
The partnership between Grayslake North High School and North Shore Gas provided rebates for energy-efficient upgrades at Grayslake North High School. This collaboration paved the way for the school to install the CarbinX unit. The technology captures carbon emissions and transforms them into pearl ash, which can be used to create products like soap and laundry detergents — and can generate an ongoing revenue stream.
One CarbinX unit can capture and sequester six to eight tons of carbon dioxide per year. The dedication to energy efficiency and sustainability has positioned Grayslake North High School as a leader in environmental stewardship.
“We are incredibly proud to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts with the installation of the CarbinX unit at Grayslake North High School,” said Dr. Mikkel Storaasli, Superintendent of District 127. “This innovative technology reduces our carbon footprint and is a powerful educational tool for our students. It demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship and provides a unique opportunity for our students to engage with real-world solutions to global challenges.”
In recognition of its efforts, Grayslake North High School has also been invited to the 2024 North Shore Gas Energy Forum, where it will be acknowledged as a leader in promoting a clean energy future. The forum will provide an additional opportunity to explore new technologies and strategies for further enhancing energy efficiency at the school.
“Grayslake High School is a shining example to students, teachers, parents and the entire community of utilizing new technology to improve operations and protect the environment,” said Polly Eldringhoff, vice president — operational performance, North Shore Gas. “The CarbinX system is a living laboratory of clean energy technology for the students, giving them a first-hand look at innovative and sustainable practices that combine energy efficiency and carbon capture.”
Emerging energy technology will be a focus of a new education initiative at Grayslake North High School. In addition to the CarbinX installation, the school will expand its partnership with North Shore Gas to offer guest speaker sessions, internships, and job-shadowing opportunities for District 127 students. This initiative aims to provide students with firsthand experience in industry-standard jobs, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in the growing energy efficiency and sustainability field.
More information about the North Shore Gas Energy Efficiency Program can be found on the North Shore Gas website.