RPI is currently combating a great number of unforeseen costs, a significant portion of which stems from energy price increases even more extreme than previously predicted. Natural gas, heating oil, and electricity are all contributing to an estimated 40 percent or more increase in RPI’s utility costs, and given the size and energy needs of all the facilities on campus, the proverbial damage comes out to millions upon millions of dollars.
Make no mistake—to maintain a balanced budget, the money to pay rising energy prices has to come from somewhere. The Institute does carefully plan for unforeseen expenses, although it inevitably means budget cuts (however well planned) in other areas. I think everyone can agree that heat and electricity are top priorities, but it still hurts students, staff, faculty, and administrators when other key programs are asked to tighten their belts.
For over 10 years now, RPI’s Department of Campus Planning & Facilities Design has recognized the importance of keeping utility costs to a minimum through an energy conservation program that has avoided usage of over 250 million kWh. The program consists of three main components: efficient energy procurement, campus energy projects/upgrades, and campus awareness. Though currently a vacant position, CP&FD’s Conservation Coordinator has traditionally taken a leading role in the campus awareness aspect of the program.
Now it’s our turn. In order to minimize the impact of these unprecedented energy costs and their inevitable effect on other programs of importance, we, the RPI community, need to take action. In addition to simply spreading the word that conserving energy on campus is more important than ever, there are some simple things that everyone can do to lower RPI’s daily usage.
A few tips for campus facilities are outlined below; an awareness campaign currently in development will hopefully provide more information and details:
-Keep any temperature control mechanisms you’re authorized to manage (like thermostats) at reasonable levels.
-Dress in layers to be prepared for reasonable indoor temperature variances.
-Turn off electrically powered devices like lights and appliances when they’re not in use.
-Unplug and properly store appliances that you never use (such as perpetually empty refrigerators).
-Be mindful and carefully manage water usage when washing your hands, doing dishes, taking a shower, or brushing your teeth.
