ATHENS, Ohio -- Ohio University's Bromley Hall was announced the winner of the second annual Energy Conservation Residence Challenge that pit 41 residence halls against each other to see which one could conserve the most energy. The challenge surpassed this year's goal achieving 29 percent savings of water and energy use resulting in cost savings of more than $83,000.

Rewards for the top conservers included a portion of the energy-cost savings to the top nine finishers for hall recreation such as pool tables or parties. Last year's first place finisher was Reed Hall on East Green.

The eight-week challenge, which started Sept. 23, is part of the university's Campus Renewal project effort to teach students the importance of energy efficiency and conservation. Each year the university spends about $11 million on utilities, such as water and electricity. Energy and water costs were reduced a total of $76,000 during last year's Residence Challenge.