1. Purpose. This policy
establishes the requirements for an energy management program for The Citadel.
2. Background. Faced with continually increasing energy
costs and a decrease in operating funds, we must use all available means to
reduce our energy costs and increase efficiency.
3. Guiding Principles. The
Citadel consumes significant amounts of energy in its operation of vehicles, equipment, buildings,
and facilities. The Citadel is committed to supporting and adding emphasis to
its energy management and conservation initiatives. The Citadel will strive to:
A. Reduce energy costs, eliminate
waste, and conserve energy resources by using energy-efficient and
cost-effective technology.
B. Incorporate energy efficiency
into the decision-making process during the design and acquisition of
facilities, equipment and transportation systems emphasizing the use of
renewable energy sources.
C. Promote vehicle energy
efficiency and reduce petroleum consumption through emphasis on fuel efficient
use, operation and maintenance of fleet vehicles; the acquisition of
alternative fueled vehicles; use of oxygenated gasolines; and, increasing the
corporate average fuel efficiency (CAFE) of the vehicle.
D. Increase energy efficiency
through capital investment and improved operations.
E. Establish partnerships with
government and outside organizations to provide technical assistance and to
share costs on energy conserving initiatives to the extent possible.
F. Recognize and promote
individual and organizational achievements in conserving energy, advancing
campus and departmental energy policy, and obtaining monetary savings.
4. OBJECTIVE.
To realize the greatest return from every dollar expended on energy resources and increase the efficient use of energy, water and mobility fuels; and, to increase energy awareness and efficient management throughout the college in regards to natural gas, fuel oil, electricity, water, and mobility fuels. The resulting efficiency increase and monetary savings will help support our energy conservation program.
Heating and Cooling Operations
In keeping with its primary mission, The Citadel has an obligation to maintain a quality environment within its facilities to sustain its educational and research missions. The Citadel is also committed to utilizing the best available conservation practices to curtail the excessive consumption of resources in supplying utility services to its facilities.
Accomplishing this objective within the context of The Citadel's overall mission requires continued vigilance to maintain a reasonable balance between operational requirements and energy conservation. The Citadel's ability to maintain this balance through the investment in energy efficient equipment and building components is further constrained by available resources.
Accordingly, the following guidelines for resource and utility management will be implemented to best support the mission and objectives of The Citadel. The Director of Physical Plant will review any deviations from these guidelines.
Heating and Cooling: In many instances temperature management of indoor environments is governed by central controls monitored by Physical Plant. Building occupants can, however, contribute to their own comfort by wearing seasonal clothing and by making sure that windows, shades and blinds work and are positioned for the season. In addition, building occupants may be able to move to different work locations where conditions may be more favorable.
Heating Season: The targeted temperature for most workspaces is 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to building characteristics and control limitations, actual temperatures will vary. Temperatures in storerooms, hallways, stairwells and other unoccupied areas will be kept in the 68 degree Fahrenheit range to the extent possible.
The only exceptions to these guidelines will be in laboratories, experimental areas, museums, and other spaces where there is a demonstrated work requirement for maintenance of higher or more consistent temperatures. Electric heaters to supplement central heating are allowed only with the authorization of the Director of Physical Plant. These devices can be dangerous and misused, and will be allowed only under controlled circumstances. Windows will not be opened during the winter to cool spaces. Physical Plant will be notified as soon as possible when heating equipment is not performing adequately.
Cooling Season: In the spring and fall during transitional periods and in buildings where air conditioning is not available, ventilation from fans in open windows may be the only means to maintain reasonable working conditions in some spaces. Once the official cooling season has begun this practice will be discontinued in the buildings with air conditioning. Comfort complaints will be forwarded to the Physical Plant.
In areas where air conditioning systems have been installed, the targeted temperature will be 74 degrees Fahrenheit. In auditoriums, classrooms and other areas where large numbers of people may assemble, the pre-event target may be reduced to facilitate the occupant heat load. Other exceptions to these guidelines may be made to meet specific laboratory, experimental, library, or museum requirements. Due to building characteristics and control limitations, actual temperatures may vary from the target.
Ventilation: Areas equipped with ventilation systems will be operated in the most economical way possible, consistent with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirements and the comfort and safety of building occupants. During times of reduced occupancy, the cycling of fans or the reduction of fan speeds will be employed where possible to conserve energy. If possible, systems will be shut off entirely during periods of minimal or no use.
Lighting: Adequate lighting for interior and exterior use is essential, but must be provided in an energy efficient manner. Fluorescent lighting will be used whenever possible, utilizing lamps and electronic ballasts employing the latest energy efficient technology feasible. The use of sports arena and field lighting for other than Citadel sanctioned events will be monitored and evaluated for its cost to the Citadel. Lighting in all cases will be turned off whenever it is no longer required by the room or facility occupants. The faculty, staff and Corp of Cadets will be responsible for the turning off energy consuming devices whenever possible to conserve resources.
Computers: All new computer and peripheral equipment purchases will carry the Energy Star rating. Suggested guidelines for energy efficiency include turning off processors or monitors when not in use, and turning off copiers and printers every evening. These steps save energy and reduce heat build-up. Individuals may contact Physical Plant for links to software to help utilize energy saving modes for their equipment.
Water Usage: Individuals will take care to use water sparingly, and to be sure to completely turn off water spigots after use. Report leaking taps or valves to Physical Plant.
For more
information this policy, contact The Citadel Energy Manager.