Energy Conservation
University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers (UMHHC) energy teams continually optimize building energy performance through innovative design, energy retrofit projects, efficient operation and maintenance, and efficient computing systems. Since 2005, UMHHC buildings have increased their efficiency by more than 24% (measured as BTU/ft2 of building area). In fiscal year 2012, existing facilities improved their energy efficiency by another 5%. This year also included the addition of the new 1.1 Million ft2 Children’s & Women’s Hospital (C&W) which added over $6 Million in new UMHHC utility costs.
In fiscal year 2012, UMHHC buildings had nearly $28 million in utilities expenses, including:
- Electricity - $16.7 Million
- Steam - $7.5 Million
- Natural Gas - $0.96 Million
- Water & Sewer - $2.6 Million
How are we doing now? Track current energy efficiency trends:
Most Efficient UMHHC Buildings: In fiscal year 2012, the following UMHHC buildings were the most energy efficient (organized by building use type):
Energy in Your Building: Click here for more information on energy use in your building
FY2012 Energy Conservation Projects
During fiscal year 2012, twelve energy conservation projects were completed that are anticipated to save approximately $250,000 annually. Additionally, energy teams completed a substantial operations optimization effort in the new Children’s & Women’s hospital, anticipated to save approximately $1.4 Million/year.
Key projects include:
- Advanced air handling unit controls to more efficiently heat, cool and circulate building air
- New controls to reduce heating and cooling demands in unoccupied areas during nights and weekends
- Occupancy sensors for lighting and ventilation control
- Daylight sensors for lighting control
- Water saving fixture retrofits in restrooms
- Airflow balancing
- GreenIT programs to manage computer energy use during inactive periods
How can you help?
Watch the video below to learn how you can be a steward in energy conservation at our Health System.
More tips
- Turn lights off when you leave a room
- Control your thermostat - 68°F winter / 76°F summer
- Dress in layers of clothing to increase comfort level instead of adjusting the thermostat
- Don’t use space heaters
- Use task lighting instead of room lights
- Request a motion sensing power strip
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