Eastern Michigan University intends to tighten its energy belt by forming a partnership with Chevron Energy Solutions.

The two will conduct energy audits of the university's 16 buildings. Some of these buildings are a 100 years or older, but most were built in the mid 20th Century. Many have gone decades without updating their infrastructure, if it was upgraded at all.

"We're looking at more than $30 million in potential savings> And that is just in our housing buildings," says Steven Moore, energy and sustainability manager for Eastern Michigan University, a post that was created early last year. "There is a large potential for energy savings on this campus."

Some of the biggest gains will be realized in the Wise, Brown-Munson, Hoyt and Pittman halls. A number of the easy improvements expected to be done soon include lighting retrofits, replacing toilets and faucets and upgrading heating and cooling controls in the building.

The university was able to realize $500,000 in savings through a few improvements last year, hitting its goal. It has already surpassed its goal for this year and expects to accomplish more gains.

Source: Steven Moore, energy and sustainability manager for Eastern Michigan University
Writer: Jon Zemke