With the severity of this winter's weather and accompanying cold temperatures causing an increase in energy usage, all faculty, staff and students are asked to:
- turn off radiators or close vents wherever possible rather than opening windows to cool offices, classrooms or residence hall rooms.
- turn off computer monitors and CPU's and other equipment when not in use, especially overnight.
- reduce electrical consumption by turning off unnecessary lights, window air conditioners and other electrical appliances, especially in areas that are not occupied. Departments are asked to assure that lights are shut off in classrooms, workspaces and offices when not in use and at the end of the day.
- not use electric heaters unless approved by Facilities and Auxiliaries.
During the day, thermostats should be set no higher than 70 degrees except for areas containing sensitive equipment and/or research that requires special conditions.
The University has also received a flow order notification from our gas supplier because of a shortage of natural gas reserves. A flow order means that any gas that is being used when a flow order is called will be charged at the current market price (around $21 per million cubic foot). Although the University is currently using coal to provide steam for the campus, an increased demand for energy could necessitate using the gas-fired boilers.
Using natural gas at flow order prices would have huge financial consequences during already difficult budget times. For example, for the three-day period of February 24-26, it cost $12,772 to produce steam using coal. Using natural gas during this same period would have cost $173,733. Therefore, administration is asking for your help in lowering energy use wherever possible to avoid the need to use natural gas.
