It all adds up: Conserving energy at MSU

At Michigan State University, meeting the rising energy demand on campus is an ever-evolving task. Delivering reliable power to every corner of campus is critical, not only for the thousands of students, faculty and staff who depend on it, but also for key research projects. As technology continues to grow both in the classroom and in personal spaces, MSU is calling on staff, faculty and students to learn how their power consumption impacts campus and how they can make small adjustments that contribute to reduced energy use.

With the latest cell phones, computers, televisions and other technologies filling the rooms and backpacks of nearly every student on campus, coupled with new construction and energy-intensive research projects, MSU's overall energy demand is rising.

 

"Think back to 1965 and what the average college student or office worker brought with them to MSU. Fast forward to now and imagine all the devices with the potential to consume energy. The choices we make about the items we use ultimately impact overall campus consumption, but that also means that collectively we have the power to make a positive difference," said Sean Barton, MSU Sustainability Project Coordinator.

As a result of growing demand, MSU is continuously working to improve energy systems to support campus growth, and despite the challenges is determined to balance increased capacity with the sustainable goals set forth in the university's Energy Transition Plan. MSU is addressing this rising demand while also reducing the negative impacts of power generation by investing in conservation and energy efficiency programs, and advancing research in critical fields like renewable energy.

As MSU tackles this ever-growing need for reliable energy, students, faculty and staff can impact campus energy consumption right now. Many personal practices can be adapted to save energy, especially in personal spaces that contain a large variety of technology:

• Hit the lights when you leave a room
• Unplug devices that are not in use
• Consolidate appliances by sharing with your roommates or coworkers

Advancing campus sustainability requires collaboration, and the collective actions of each and every member of the campus community can make a difference.