Energy-efficient schools rely on dependable, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient energy solutions to decrease energy usage, guarantee uninterrupted operations, and promote a sustainable future. By utilizing adaptable technologies such as microgrids and renewable energy systems, colleges and universities can lead the way in implementing environmentally-friendly initiatives on their campuses. Higher Education at a Glance College campuses have diverse facility infrastructures with unique characteristics and varying energy requirements. It is the responsibility of all university stakeholders to prioritize environmental stewardship on campus, as universities strive to serve as models of sustainable communities by implementing clean energy projects and adopting green campus initiatives. However, one of the biggest challenges faced by colleges and universities is the unpredictability of enrollment. As a result, they require flexible and scalable energy infrastructure to effectively manage their on-site resources while mitigating risks from the rapidly increasing costs of grid electricity. Generating clean and reliable power directly on campus is crucial in helping colleges and universities fulfill their mission of educating students and promoting thought leadership. Quick Facts About Higher Education According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, colleges consume an average of 18.9 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity and 17 cubic feet of natural gas per square foot of building space annually. For a typical 50,000-square-foot campus building, this translates to over $100,000 in energy costs each year. 1 A survey conducted by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) found that 85% of respondents believe it is at least somewhat important for their campus to prioritize sustainability, highlighting the growing demand for colleges to enhance their sustainability efforts. 2 Additionally, 45% of students consider a college’s environmental efforts when evaluating their options, showcasing the role of sustainability in attracting prospective students. 2 How Energy-Efficient Schools Overcome Energy Challenges Mitigating Risk Over the past decade, grid outages in the U.S. have increased by 60%. In response, colleges and universities are taking steps to increase their preparedness so that they can continue full operations and serve as reliable anchors for their communities. Many energy-efficient schools are turning to microgrids to ensure reliable power during outages and enhance energy resilience. Resilient Solution Bloom is capable of operating independently from the grid. As fuel is received through an underground pipeline system, they are significantly less vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather, enabling safe and continuous operation and avoiding the costly consequences of unplanned downtime. In critical times, emergency power ensures that energy-efficient schools can maintain full functionality. By implementing these measures, colleges and universities can effectively overcome energy challenges and continue to prioritize sustainability efforts.
Gio. Dic 26th, 2024
