Energy

Performance Contracting with Siemens

Performance contracting  is a funding and management mechanism that allows WVU to make physical infrastructure efficiency improvements with minimal up-front costs, and use the savings to pay for the work over time. WVU began its contract with partner Siemens in 2008, and is now in its 3rd phase. 

• Energy efficient upgrades such as new HVAC systems, improved lighting, and low-flow water fixtures have increased energy efficiency in over 60 campus buildings, including regional campuses.
• The program has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by about 600,000,000 pounds.
• It has also saved over $35 million in energy costs.

Building with LEED Principles

All new buildings and renovation projects meet many requirements that are used to fulfill LEED certification, though WVU does not apply for official status from the US Green Building Council. Some of the LEED certification criteria that WVU implements into their projects include but are not limited to:

• accessibility to alternative transportation,
• water reduction systems and water efficient landscaping,
• optimal energy performance,
• use of regional building supplies,
• use of natural daylight lighting, and
• low-emitting materials such as paint and carpet.

Additional Energy Conservation Measures

• In addition to making physical changes to buildings, WVU has also engaged in campaigns to urge campus users to take practice energy-reduction steps such as shutting down computers, turning off light when leaving a room, discouraging personal electronics such as mini fridges and space heaters, and maintaining recommend office temperatures.
• All exterior lighting for the Evansdale and Downtown campuses and all station and track lighting for the PRT is LED.
• WVU's Shared Network Printing program has reduced the number of individual printers and copiers to use space, paper, and energy more efficiently for printing needs.