Conquering the Energy Myths
Sep 15, 2006, 12:01:00
Myth #1 – I can not make a difference
Truth: Each of us has unique opportunities to affect the energy use at UGA. Turning off equipment, encouraging others to be “Energy Conscious”, being tolerant of conditions that may be warmer or cooler than we prefer, and reporting instances where energy is being wasted are all ways each of us can make a difference.
Action: Learn how to be “Energy Conscious”, put it to practice, and see how contagious you become.
Myth #2 – I’ll never get any benefit from saving energy
Truth: Utilities are budgeted separately and their savings are invested back into energy saving projects on the UGA campus. In addition, Physical Plant recovers utility costs by charging end users, such as University Housing, UGA Food Service, etc. for their energy use who in turn pass on these costs to their customers.
Action: Reducing energy use and cost equals cost savings for everyone at UGA.
Myth #3 – Energy is not a big cost at UGA
Truth: Utilities represent one of the largest cost items in the UGA budget – over $ 28 million annually.
Action: Always try to make little improvements, like turning your lights and computer off. Conservative estimates state that changed behaviors regarding energy conservation can save up to 10% - THAT’S $ 2.8 million per year!
Myth #4 – There is no information available at UGA for energy saving
Truth: The Office of Energy Services at Physical Plant has created a new website to provide information on energy saving tips, current activities at UGA related to energy saving, and other information about the use and conservation of energy at UGA.
Action: Check out www.energy.uga.edu
to get information on how you can be a part of the energy saving activities at UGA.