Jan. 7, 2014: University Nets Over $140,000 in Energy Savings During Holiday Closure
Energy Management System Dials Back More Than 3,000 Thermostats Across Campus
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — An eight-day winter recess at Western Michigan University (WMU) came to an end on Jan. 2, with the school’s offices returning to normal business hours and the final tally of energy savings during the period estimated to come in at more than $140,000.
Utilizing WMU’s building energy management system, more than 3,000 thermostats across the campus were dialed back to 55°F late in the day on Dec. 24 with a single mouse click by Jan Van Der Kley, WMU vice president for business and finance. The setback affected 75 campus buildings and some 5,000 pieces of mechanical equipment.