USC Aiken succeeds in cutting energy use

AIKEN --- Students, faculty and staff have helped the University of South Carolina Aiken in its mission to go green.

The university reduced its energy consumption by close to 6 percent in the past year in response to a state mandate to reduce energy use by 20 percent by 2020, spokeswoman Jennifer Conner said. The university is far ahead of its goal, she said.

Chancellor Tom Hallman signed a climate action plan last month that will lead the university to a greater reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, said Len Engel, the school's environment and safety manager. The American College & University Presidents' Climate Commitment will help the campus become climate neutral.

"The plan is part of our chancellor's commitment to sustainability and eventually reaching a carbon-neutral status where we eliminate and offset (greenhouse gas) emissions," he said. "To become climate neutral, we will apply techniques like using renewable energy to reduce our carbon footprint."

One example of the university's efforts is its use of solar energy. USC Aiken uses solar energy to heat its natatorium and to power crossing lights and outdoor emergency notification sirens, Mr. Engel said.

Because electricity makes up 80 percent of the campus's carbon usage, most efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are centered there, Mr. Engel said. The initiatives outlined in the climate action plan helped the university reduce energy consumption by 27 percent in September compared with the same time last year.

Faculty and students have done their part in the efforts, Ms. Conner said.

Turning off computers, monitors and lights when leaving rooms has reduced energy use, she said. Setting computers to "power save mode" after being idle for 15 minutes also has helped.

The campus is now equipped with Energy Star appliances, Mr. Engel said. USC Aiken staff also monitor kilowatt usage every 15 minutes and have upgraded HVAC units for increased efficiency.

All the efforts have already begun to benefit the students, Mr. Engel said.

"We've reduced the money spent on energy, so more is available for courses, student activities and other education expenses," he said.

Reach Stephanie Toone at (803) 648-1395 ext. 110, or stephanie.toone@augustachronicle.com.