Strategies Overview

The basic concept of an energy cost avoidance program is that savings are turned into new energy efficient equipment. Lighting and HVAC retrofits are important parts of a viable program. In essence, the monies realized from energy savings are used to repay any money borrowed during the retrofit phase. New energy efficient equipment translates into significant savings and greater comfort. It also minimizes maintenance hours, which would be spent repairing old equipment. This allows the maintenance staff to spend time on preventative maintenance.

Centralized controls are necessary to make sure that equipment is working properly and that HVAC equipment is not working when buildings are unoccupied.

Program Objectives:

• Survey current electrical equipment.
• Visit cafeterias to review practices that might save on energy, water and sewage costs.
• Remove lights from all vending machines in the system.
• Mandate that all computer screens be turned off when not in use.
  
• Ask staff/tenants not to use electric heaters in the offices.
• Develop a program for turning off all unused equipment during summer months.
• Develop a program for running HVAC units while buildings are cleaned during summer months. One section of the building should be run at a time.
• Develop a program for running HVAC units two hours each day during summer months to prevent mold.
• Review the use of outside lights during evening and weekend hours.
• Consider banning portable refrigerators and microwaves in the buildings.
• Review the possibility of adding Duo-gard or similar covers on leaking windows.
• Mandate that exterior doors and windows remain closed when HVAC equipment is in use.
• Meet with the energy manager and begin development of a cost avoidance program. Develop visual aids for classrooms and hallways.
• Put stickers on all light switches as a reminder to turn off lights. Click here to get a sticker.
  
• Train centralized personnel to use control equipment.
• Monitor energy cost and equipment performance.
• Eliminate energy peaks in the system.
• Speak with electrical utility officials about rebate programs.
• Review the practicality of installing waterless urinals.
• Consider the possibility of installing on-demand water heaters when replacing old water heaters.

Energy costs are going to continually rise. Brownouts are likely to become a way of life if conservation efforts are not put into place now. Cost avoidance programs are no longer optional. They are necessary.