Energy Alert Today – Your Help Needed to Conserve Energy

Aug 23, 2021

Facilities & Services (F&S) requests that all students, faculty, and staff take action to conserve energy to the greatest extent possible today through Wednesday due to anticipated high electric demand on the regional grid. Energy conservation efforts should be maximized between the hours of 2 and 7 p.m. when consumption is typically the greatest.

During potential peak usage periods, F&S' Utilities & Energy Services division optimizes centralized energy production and distribution methods involving Abbott Power Plant and the Campus Chilled Water System to reduce overall electrical demand on the Urbana campus.

You can help the university beat the peak during an Energy Alert by using the following tips in university buildings. All unit and individual energy conservation efforts make a difference! 

Turn it off!
If practical, shut off, shut down, sleep mode, or unplug the following:

  • Lights
  • Computers
  • Monitors
  • Printers
  • Chargers
  • Appliances
  • Other nonessential equipment

Keep it closed!
Close the following items to protect facility equipment and systems:    

  • Outside windows and doors in air conditioned areas
  • Fume hood sashes when not in use
  • Window shades to ensure rooms stay cool

Another way to assist is by contacting the F&S Energy Management Control Center fandsenergycomm@illinois.edu, 217-244-3783, regarding any hot/cold issues in campus facilities as soon as possible.

Your continued support of the university's efforts to efficiently manage the energy we use, especially at critical times, is greatly appreciated. 

Dr. Ehab Kamarah
Interim Executive Director, Facilities & Services