ENERGY

Comprehensive Environmental Policy directive: “The University will implement conservation and efficiency strategies that reduce consumption of energy, water, and other resources without compromising high quality learning environments.”

HISTORICAL ENERGY USE – EUI

This graph shows energy use intensity (EUI) for our campus. Each data point on the line graph represents total energy use for the previous 12 months divided by total campus square footage for that time period. EUI is a widely used measurement. The university uses it to evaluate its efficiency over time and to compare its energy use with peer institutions.

 

HISTORICAL NATURAL GAS USE

UO uses natural gas to heat campus. This graph shows annual and seasonal variations in usage. To decrease its overall greenhouse emissions, UO is exploring ways to use less natural gas. See the Climate Action Plan for further information.

 

HISTORICAL ELECTRIC USE

UO purchases the great majority of its electricity from the local utility, and the Central Power Station has the ability to generate electricity, when necessary, to power main campus during outages.

TEMPERATURE SETPOINT POLICY

Campus Planning and Facilities Management (CPFM) builds, maintains, and operates the infrastructure that supports the University of Oregon’s mission of exceptional teaching, discovery, and public service. CPFM is comprises five units that steward UO’s physical legacy: Facilities Services, Utilities & Energy, Campus Planning, Design & Construction, and the Office of Sustainability.

CPFM works to cultivate a sustainable campus. In 2021, CPFM enacted Thermal Conditioning Operating Standards for all General Fund university buildings. These standards reduce energy consumption and safeguard building resources while ensuring comfortable working conditions. Temperature setpoints improve energy efficiency in campus buildings’ heating and cooling systems. “Occupied” hours are standard campus business hours, typically 7:30 am-8:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

  • In buildings with central heating and cooling systems, the temperature setpoint range extends from 70° when buildings are heated to 75° when buildings are air-conditioned. When these buildings are unoccupied, the range extends from 66° to 78°.
  • In buildings without central cooling systems, temperature setpoints are typically set to 70° during business hours and may be allowed to drop to 66° when unoccupied. 
  • CPFM may determine setpoint ranges for research spaces on a case-by-case basis, in response to submitted requests.

Other energy conservation standards include:

  • Responsible management of manually operated windows. 
  • Requiring space heaters to meet university safety and energy standards. 
  • Prohibition of portable and window-unit air conditioners.
  • Campus Planning & Facilities Management Strategic Energy Management Plan