With temperatures soaring into the nineties, it is no secret we are using more energy—and we use the most energy between 2:00 and 8:00 p.m. It is also during these hours that our campus is charged more for its energy usage—by almost 50 percent more than other months.
In light of the Chancellor’s Challenge to cut 10 percent of our energy consumption, Chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek respectfully asks you to conserve wherever you can and to put a special emphasis on these peak times.
The rates are higher during these peak times due to a change in TVA’s rate structure.
A new rate structure for TVA’s wholesale customers presents an opportunity for large savings on campus. The new structure seeks to reduce overall consumption by charging more during high-demand times and less during low-demand times.
Here are simple changes that you can make to implement a big difference:
• Faculty and staff should take advantage of natural light in their offices and take lighting into consideration when arranging for conference and workroom space. They should also avoid printing or copying large documents and using other electronic machinery during peak times.
• Whenever possible, higher electric use activities should be scheduled for periods outside of the peak time window.
• Students in residence halls should avoid doing laundry during the peak time period if possible. Students also should be conscientious of energy consumption when using computers, televisions, and game systems during the peak time hours.
Peak times for winter months will change in December to the morning hours of 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
For specific tips that relate to your work area, contact the Office of Sustainability at 974-7786 to arrange a visit.