MultiStack LLC, the Sparta, Wis.-based manufacturer of high-efficiency modular chillers for commercial, industrial, and government applications, is the winner in Danfoss' second annual EnVisioneer of the Year award competition.

"EnVisioneering is a strategic, customer-focused approach designed to create engaged partnerships with our customers by combining engineering innovation, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility," John Galyen, president, Danfoss North America, manufacturer of high-efficiency electronic and mechanical components and controls for air-conditioning, heating, refrigeration, and motion systems, explained.

Launched in 2010, the award recognizes end users, building owners, and original-equipment manufacturers that exemplify EnVisioneering core values and have used Danfoss products to realize significant energy and/or environmental savings.

MultiStack installed two of its chillers at Valley High School in Las Vegas. The installation included eight Danfoss Turbocor compressors, four Danfoss VLT variable-frequency drives, and the MultiStack FlexSys controller, which incorporates Danfoss Turbocor software.

By switching to magnetic-levitation-powered chillers and a central-plant control system, school administrators hoped to reduce energy use in the 45-year-old building by 50 percent. They exceeded that goal by 20 percent, reducing energy consumption from 1.5 kw per ton to 0.443 kw per ton.

"This application is particularly interesting because it demonstrates the impressive savings that can be achieved in existing buildings by investing in and applying energy-efficient technology available on the market today," Galyen said. "It's proof that upgrades that can be made right now will have a big impact on the future of the building and the environment."

Danfoss made a financial contribution in MultiStack's honor to Rebuilding Together, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving affordable homeownership and revitalizing communities.