Chesapeake Utilities Partners with Sussex Technical High School for Natural Gas Infrastructure

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE: CPK) has recently announced its pivotal role in supporting the construction of the new Sussex Technical High School campus in Delaware. This initiative marks a significant milestone as it stands as the largest school construction project in the state’s history. With an impressive investment of approximately $249 million, the new campus promises to enhance educational facilities for both local high school and adult education students.

Project Overview

The new Sussex Tech campus will cover more than 400,000 square feet across three stories, providing increased capacity for 1,800 high school students and over 3,500 adult learners. This expansion not only represents a substantial upgrade from the current facilities but also includes provisions for future growth. Groundbreaking for the project took place in October 2024, with an anticipated completion date set for September 2027.

To ensure that this modern educational facility operates efficiently, Chesapeake Utilities is constructing a nearly four-mile natural gas pipeline. This infrastructure will be crucial in supplying natural gas, which will power key building systems, thereby meeting the campus's energy demands with reliability and sustainability.

Transitioning to Natural Gas

The switch to natural gas is a strategic decision made by the Sussex County Vocational Technical School District Board of Education, reflecting a broader commitment to performance and modernization. By transitioning away from fuel oil and propane, the district aims to optimize energy use in their facilities.

Kevin E. Carson, Ed.D., the Superintendent of the Sussex County Vocational Technical School District, stated, “Our new campus is designed to support students, educators, and the broader community well into the future. Reliable energy service is a critical part of delivering on our mission and vision.” This sentiment emphasizes the integral role that energy solutions play in enhancing educational environments.

Commitment to Reliability

Jeff Sylvester, Senior Vice President and COO of Chesapeake Utilities, echoed the sentiment around energy resilience in large educational campus settings: “Large educational campuses require energy solutions that are proven and resilient. We're proud to assist Sussex Tech with a project that supports education and long-term community growth by expanding safe and reliable natural gas service in Delaware.” This collaboration highlights the vital relationship between energy infrastructure and community development.

Both Chesapeake Utilities and the Sussex Technical High School view this project as a significant investment into the future of the region, upholding the principles of modern infrastructure alongside dependable energy solutions.

About Chesapeake Utilities Corporation

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is a diverse energy company operating across various segments, including natural gas transmission, propane distribution, and electricity services. The company's commitment to sustainable energy solutions aligns with ongoing efforts to provide reliable services to customers in Delaware and the surrounding regions.

For further details, you can visit Chesapeake Utilities.

About Sussex County Vocational Technical School District

Located in Sussex County, Delaware, this district is known for offering high-quality career and technical education. More than just classroom learning, they provide rigorous academic instruction alongside hands-on experiences, creating pathways to success for high school and adult learners alike. To learn more, visit Sussex Vocational Technical School District.