UAA Implements New Energy Policy
 

UAA Implements New Energy Policy

By: Staff   Dec 11, 2007

Commitment to responsible energy and resource management is part of UAA's environmental strategy

ANCHORAGE, AK – Last week the UAA Chancellor’s Cabinet approved a new energy policy for UAA.  Many of its objectives are already being practiced at UAA, but this policy creates a systematic and focused approach to energy conservation and ultimately, environmental protection.  UAA spends $4-5 million annually on energy.  Efficient use of these funds is imperative for the health of the university as well as the environment. 

The energy policy states that UAA aims to minimize energy use, energy costs, environmental impacts from harmful emissions, and depletion of nonrenewable resources.  The University has a renewed commitment to achieving best practice standards in energy management and sustainability for higher education, while maintaining operational goals and a good learning/working/living environment for staff and students.  The policy assures UAA’s senior level management support of long-term sustainability and environmental principles.

Some of the strategic objectives of the new plan are to invest in energy efficient plants and projects with paybacks of eight years; to integrate energy efficiency designs in all new buildings, and equipment renewals and upgrades; to increase awareness of students, faculty and staff; and to procure goods and services from organizations who demonstrate a positive commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability.  Creating an energy efficient campus is ultimately a responsibility for everyone at UAA.  UAA encourages others in the community, and especially those who are our vendors, suppliers and contractors, to adopt similar policies, principles and actions. Starting with the simple act of switching off lights and computers when not in use can have a huge impact on energy conservation.

UAA is developing a long-term sustainability program to help educate its students and workforce about how each person can help conserve energy and be smarter consumers of materials, water and transportation.

UAA’s new energy policy will result in a more sustainable campus with savings that can be reinvested in its infrastructure. The plan will undergo periodic reviews and updates as it is integrated into a larger sustainability program for the entire UAA system, our local community and new state policies. 

More information about the energy operating procedures can be obtained from the Associate Director of Facilities and Campus Services at (907) 786-1110.