September 05, 2025
RMF Featured in Q3 District Energy Magazine
RMF Engineering is highlighted throughout the Q3 issue of District Energy magazine, reflecting both thought leadership on district energy communication strategies and ongoing project work within the district energy sector.
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Framing the Conversation: Wendy Placko on Communicating District Energy Systems
As part of the District Energy Women’s Initiative (DEWI) feature "How to talk about district energy’s place in evolving modern markets," Wendy Placko, RMF’s Sustainability Program Manager, discusses how communication strategy plays a critical role in advancing understanding and support for district energy. She explores how analogies, storytelling, and tailored messaging can make technical systems more accessible, especially for audiences unfamiliar with the field.
Wendy's column (page 59) emphasizes the need for intentional, audience-specific messaging that avoids technical jargon and builds connection through relatable frameworks. Using a simple yet effective analogy, she illustrates the value of centralized systems in a way that resonates beyond the engineering community.
This contribution aligns with broader efforts within the industry to engage diverse stakeholders and expand awareness of how district energy supports sustainability, efficiency, and resilience.
Photo Credit: IDEA
Highlighting Progress at SUNY Albany
The issue also includes mention of RMF’s involvement in the University at Albany’s $30 million decarbonization project (page 12). The campus initiative includes the replacement of two gas-fired absorption chillers in a power plant from the 1950's with electric centrifugal and heat recovery chillers, supported by a new geoexchange well field. Up to 135 geoexchange wells, each reaching 800 feet, are planned, with construction already underway.
Once complete, the system is projected to reduce natural gas emissions across the campus by 16%, representing a tangible move toward long-term decarbonization and operational efficiency.
Photo Credit: Patrick Dodson