Energy Initiatives and Engineering

Energy Initiatives: Washington and Lee is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving carbon neutrality as outlined in the 2010 Climate Action Plan and as demonstrated in the "Five for Five" program. The Director of Energy Initiatives coordinates the efforts of energy consultants and contractors to implement short, medium, and long-term goals:

  • 2011 - Reduce annual utilities cost by $1 million
  • 2013 - Reduce BTUs per square foot by 25%
  • 2020 - Reduce greenhouse production 20%
  • 2050 - Achieve carbon neutrality

Current Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs)

  • Building retro-commissioning of selected buildings
  • Lighting retro-fits
  • Controls upgrades
  • Sub-metering of selected buildings
  • Alternative energy learning lab

ENERGY DASHBOARD:  The Energy Intelligence System (E.I.S.) allows users to track the amount of energy consumed to heat , cool and provide electricity to the buildings on campus.

Environmental Management: The Director works closely with the University Sustainability Committee to create, organize, and provide operational support for sustainability efforts across campus departments. These include recycling, composting, the Campus Garden, energy conservation, and related educational opportunities. The Director maintains the University Sustainability Website and Calendar, and records and reports campus sustainability efforts.

Engineering: The Engineer provides support to all University Facilities departments including:

  • Analyzing operational problems with University equipment and systems such as steam and chilled water production and distribution, power and water distribution and sanitary facilities.
  • Monitoring campus energy consumption and identify opportunities for improved energy efficiency.
  • Participating in the design, planning, evaluation, procurement, construction, operation, and maintenance of major capital projects.
  • Supporting project management activities throughout construction document review and through periodic inspection of project progress and assuring conformance with the established specifications and standards.