Improving Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is the foundation for getting to net zero direct emissions by 2040. The Climate Action Energy Working Group oversees the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects on BU’s campuses.

Lighting

BU has undertaken several lighting projects in recent years to vastly increase energy efficiency.

  • Lighting retrofits have increased efficiency and created a standard of lighting while reducing labor needed to replace bulbs. We replaced less efficient halogen, incandescent, and compact fluorescent bulbs with high-performance bulbs
  • New construction incorporates energy efficient lighting
  • Daylight responsive lighting controls and occupancy sensors have reduced waste energy

Examples

  • 24 Cummington Mall
  • 33 Harry Agganis Way
  • Agganis Arena
  • College of Arts & Sciences
  • Fitness & Recreation Center
  • Garages at 700 and 730–750 Commonwealth Avenue
  • George Sherman Union
  • Makechnie Study Center
  • Mugar Library
  • Myles Standish Hall
  • College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College
  • Exterior lighting across campus

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Our University’s energy program manager enlisted Facilities Management & Operations to identify opportunities to upgrade efficiency in our HVAC system (as envisioned in our Climate Action Plan). These include:

  • Insulating pipe and mechanical equipment
  • Surveying and repairing continuous steam traps
  • Converting boilers from oil to gas in campus brownstones
  • Using automation systems to manage existing air-handling equipment

Related Projects

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