Posted on Aug. 19: Efforts to conserve power pay off

Turning off lights, fans and photocopiers went a long way yesterday in efforts to reduce the University's power usage.

The provincial state of emergency prompted McMaster to make every effort to reduce the amount of hydro currently used. Thanks to everyone's dedicated efforts, the University succeeded in operating at 30 per cent less hydro yesterday than an average business day.

“I would like to thank everyone who has helped the University reduce power consumption since the blackout last Thursday,” says Karen Belaire, vice-president, administration. “Your co-operation during these extreme circumstances is greatly appreciated. I understand that employees and students are patiently tolerating warmer offices and adjusting work outputs to avoid using equipment that is considered non-essential. You've done a great job of responding to an immediate need and I ask for your continued support.”

It will be important to continue to conserve energy wherever possible over the warm days ahead. Provincially, hydro availability is not yet back to full operating levels and the state of emergency issued by Premier Eves remains in effect. The risk of further blackouts remains a high possibility. McMaster, along with all businesses and residents, is asked to continue power reductions.

Some tips on how to conserve energy at home and the office:

Turn off excess lights, computers, photocopiers, fans or electronic equipment

Turn air conditioning off or use sparingly; power down when not in use

Close blinds or curtains to keep the heat out

Avoid large printing jobs on the press or photocopier

Use the stairs instead of elevators

Minimize the use of hot water

Avoid the use of electronic signage

Many of these tips are good to remember as on-going procedures even when not in a state of emergency. Reducing the amount of hydro used at home and at work goes a long way to helping reduce power usage and you will benefit from lower utility bills.

Members of the crisis management team will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular information updates as available.

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Turning off lights, fans and photocopiers went a long way yesterday in efforts to reduce the University&#039;s power usage. <p><br />
<br />
The provincial state of emergency prompted McMaster to make every effort to reduce the amount of hydro currently used. Thanks to everyone&#039;s dedicated efforts, the University succeeded in operating at 30 per cent less hydro yesterday than an average business day.  <p><br />
<br />
"I would like to thank everyone who has helped the University reduce power consumption since the blackout last Thursday," says Karen Belaire, vice-president, administration.  "Your co-operation during these extreme circumstances is greatly appreciated.  I understand that employees and students are patiently tolerating warmer offices and adjusting work outputs to avoid using equipment that is considered non-essential.  You&#039;ve done a great job of responding to an immediate need and I ask for your continued support."<p><br />
<br />
It will be important to continue to conserve energy wherever possible over the warm days ahead. Provincially, hydro availability is not yet back to full operating levels and the state of emergency issued by Premier Eves remains in effect. The risk of further blackouts remains a high possibility. McMaster, along with all businesses and residents, is asked to continue power reductions.<p><br />
<br />
Some tips on how to conserve energy at home and the office:<ul><br />
<li>Turn off excess lights, computers, photocopiers, fans or electronic equipment</li><br />
<li>Turn air conditioning off or use sparingly; power down when not in use</li><br />
<li>Close blinds or curtains to keep the heat out</li><br />
<li>Avoid large printing jobs on the press or photocopier</li><br />
<li>Use the stairs instead of elevators</li><br />
<li>Minimize the use of hot water</li><br />
<li>Avoid the use of electronic signage</li></ul><br />
<br />
Many of these tips are good to remember as on-going procedures even when not in a state of emergency.  Reducing the amount of hydro used at home and at work goes a long way to helping reduce power usage and you will benefit from lower utility bills. <p> <br />
<br />
Members of the crisis management team will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular information updates as available.

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