Lincoln Chua and Gord Setka from Facility Services.

How many light fixtures will a university change to save $20,000 a year on its Hydro bill?

Approximately 1,800 electrical fixtures were replaced in the 10,600 sq. m. science building just in time for fall semester.

Besides the brand new fixtures and fluorescent lights, the retro fit initiative, sparked by increasing maintenance costs, has the added benefit of improved energy efficiency. The project, which included installing motion sensors in hallways, classrooms, laboratories, and washrooms reduces energy usage by 30 per cent. These changes result in an estimated savings of 356,000 kWh/annum or sufficient energy to supply 25 units of 1600 sq. ft. single detached houses for a year.

The university received $48,570 in subsidies from BC Hydro to defray the cost of the $370,000 upgrade.

The university is currently seeking a candidate to head up all green initiatives, which will soon fall under the auspices of the newly created Office of Environment and Sustainability, in consultation with the recently formed Environmental Advisory Committee.

Contact:

• Lincoln Chua, Associate Director of Facilities, (p)250-828-5152