How do i make my college more energy efficient?

Question

I'm trying to find things our college can do in order to make it more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. This planet is in danger and we want to help.

Answer 1

Cut down power consumption.  For instance, turn off your computer.

Sounds drastic?  Sure, but that is what the environmental challenge is all about.  The impact humans have on the environment is primarily about comfort and leisure.  If you want to make a difference, you need to be willing to sacrifice.

Answer 2

Here's a list of potential energy efficiency measures to consider.  However, an energy audit will give you the cost / benefit of each to see what should be considered and economically viable.

Efficiency lighting & lighting controls.

Lighting maintenance

Motor controls on fans and pumps with variable loads (VFDs)

HVAC efficiency improvements & proper maintenance.

Utilization of Free Cooling in chiller systems

Window films

Daylighting controls

Use of heat wheels

Proper sizing of motor loads.

Energy efficient motors (replace existing motors on burnout)

Building envelope improvements

Use of renewable energy resources

Recycle paper, plastics and metals (doesn't need an energy audit to quantify)

Education of staff & students (doesn't need an energy audit to quanitfy)

Insulation of chilled water and hot water pipes

Maintenance of stream traps and their proper operation

Maintenance of compressed air systems - fix leaks

Waste heat recovery

Heat traps

Heat pipes for humidity control

Reduction in hot water use

Building recommissioning

Thermal Energy Storage - to reduce utility peak demand

Use of trees and their proper placement in relation to buildings.