PSU in-action
Energy Star Program
Visit the Energy Star website.
On February 22, 2001, Penn State signed the Partnership Letter committing to help the environment through improved energy performance. Penn State signed up as the entire institution, including University Park and the Commonwealth Campuses, The Dickinson School of Law, Pennsylvania College of Technology and The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
By signing the Partnership Letter, Penn State has agreed to:
- Assess our energy management practices and energy costs.
- Designate a Strategic Energy Director.
- Benchmark energy performance.
- Develop a comprehensive energy management plan.
- Improve the energy performance of our facilities.
- Upgrade facilities where cost-effective.
- Purchase ENERGY STAR® equipment where possible.
- Strive for excellence.
- Apply for the ENERGY STAR BuildingsSM Program Label for buildings where applicable.
- Communicate our accomplishments.
ENERGY STAR® Purchasing Activities to date:
- All Purchasing 'bid requests' now encourage vendors to provide alternate bids for more environmentally responsible products.
- All University purchasing card holders were notified of the University's commitment to purchase "Energy Star" products. Local vendors were also notified and asked to promote this policy to University purchasers.
- Awarded the University's incandescent and florescent lamp bid based on lifecycle costing - including consideration for TCLP compliance (low mercury), disposal costs, and energy usage.
- Awarded an order for MicroFridges for residence halls based on lifecycle costing and energy usage.