Energy Works Michigan will be promoting energy efficiency by assisting in the installation of solar photovoltaics, solar thermal or wind systems and doing energy audits in 90 Michigan schools during the next three years.

Energy Works will continue to operate the Michigan Renewable Schools program, which has assisted in installing 30 renewable energy systems in 24 school districts in the last two years, according to a press release. An additional 40 school districts received energy audits and technical assistance to reduce heating and cooling costs and increase energy efficiency.

The expansion of services, which includes renewable energy assistance for colleges and universities for the first time, is made possible by a $4.4 million contract with the Michigan Public Service Commission, the release stated.

Solar and wind installations supported by the Michigan Renewable Schools program have already produced enough electricity to offset more than 63,000 miles worth of carbon emissions from automobiles, according to the release.

The programs offered by Energy Works are the renewable energy program, energy efficiency, K-12 educational resources and training, post-secondary education and teacher and student LED green initiatives.

Schools interested in participating in any of the programs can contact Energy Works via e-mail or by calling 734-369-9699.

Kyle Feldscher covers K-12 education for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at kylefeldscher@annarbor.com.