Energy Conservation Program Implemented at OSU Campuses
In an effort to reduce energy consumption on each of its five campuses, Oklahoma State University implemented an Energy Conservation Program in 2007, under the guidance of Energy Education, Inc. Energy Managers have been working to develop a people-oriented energy management program at each of the OSU campuses. This comprehensive program promotes conservation of electricity, gas, and water. Measures are being taken to reduce consumption mechanically, however, additional savings will come from reductions due to the increased energy awareness of faculty, staff, and students. The program emphasizes reductions during unoccupied times and promoting behavior changes of "energy consumers" to "energy savers." To facilitate these changes, OSU established Energy Management and Conservation Policy #1-0520. In addition, OSU Energy Guidelines are available for review online. The guidelines provide detailed steps that may be taken to reduce energy consumption on the OSU campuses.
Energy Managers (EM) are key to the success of the Energy Conservation Program. Buildings on each of the campuses are assigned an EM who is responsible for gathering data about energy consumption in the buildings. This includes learning about the operation of the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, and determining the occupancy patterns in each of the buildings. EMs are also responsible for educating the occupants of each building on ways their efforts can contribute to reducing energy costs at OSU. EMs regularly perform energy audits in assigned buildings to look for energy savings opportunities around the clock, especially during predominantly unoccupied times of the day, including weekends and holidays. In addition, EMs provide energy reports to building administrators, custodial staff, and others who may then share that information with building occupants to promote behavior changes that contribute to energy savings.
With regards to the Energy Conservation Program, the program in no way compromises the university's research and education mission. Laboratory operations will not be limited nor will energy savings measures disrupt classroom comfort. All students, faculty and staff are asked to do their part to conserve and help create a culture of conservation at Oklahoma State University and our campuses in Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Okmulgee. OSU strives to become a model of thoughtful stewardship through energy management and conservation, not only for the benefit of natural resources and the environment but also for taxpayer and tuition dollars.
Through the efforts of OSU Energy Managers and with the cooperation of OSU faculty, staff, and students, the Energy Conservation Program is expected to save more than $22 million over the next seven years.
OSU is going green for a brighter orange!
