The UNMC/NHS energy conservation campaign is making a difference.
“For the most part we are seeing a marked improvement of 5 percent to as much as a 10 percent reduction in peak electrical consumption,” said Nick Combs, UNMC’s manager of Maintenance and Utilities. “Now we need to ensure that this is not momentary, but something we do consistently.”
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Combs said he was “shocked” when he compared the amount of kilowatts used this month with July. “I did not expect to see this type of response from the campus, but appreciate all the efforts employees have made to reduce energy demand and increase savings,” he said.
UNMC/NHS launched its energy conservation campaign to “turn off the energy, turn on the savings” July 29 with the goal of reducing energy demand by 5 percent over the next year. So far, administrators have reduced the amount of decorative lighting across campus, held energy-saving forums with Omaha Public Power District and sent “did you save energy today” reminders to employees through the UNMC Today e-mail.
“Individual efforts are making a difference,” Combs said. “This kind of an impact has to be from individuals turning off lights, computers and monitors in offices.”
Employees can track the campaign’s success online at www.unmc.edu/energy/. Graphs will be posted regularly comparing UNMC’s progress to days with comparable outdoor temperatures. The site also includes a list of energy-saving tips.
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Departments interested in reducing lighting in their respective areas should contact UNMC Facilities Management and Planning at 559-4050. Requests also may be e-mailed to the UNMC Facilities Help Desk or mailed to ZIP 7100.